Understanding Wnt's Effect on Brain Inflammation
Role of the neurovascular molecule Wnt in regulating CNS inflammatory responses
This project explores how a molecule called Wnt helps control inflammation in the brain, especially in conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123340 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our team is looking into how the brain's own cells and immune cells work together to manage inflammation in diseases affecting the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). We are particularly interested in immune cells called myeloid cells, which are abundant in MS lesions and can either worsen inflammation or help with repair. We are focusing on a specific signaling pathway involving a molecule called Wnt, which appears to be very active in MS-like lesions. By understanding how Wnt influences these myeloid cells, we hope to uncover new ways to treat and repair damage from brain inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research aims to benefit patients living with central nervous system inflammatory diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, by uncovering new therapeutic targets.
Not a fit: Patients without central nervous system inflammatory conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that help resolve inflammation and repair damage in central nervous system diseases like multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: While Wnt signaling is known to influence immune responses in other contexts, its exact role in regulating myeloid cells during neuroinflammation is still being defined.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ifergan, Igal — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Ifergan, Igal
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.