Neuroprotection in MS: A Cell-Specific and Region-Specific Transcriptomics Approach

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R01 · $444,575 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

This proposal will use a cell-specific and region-specific transcriptomics approach in the MS preclinical model to reveal new candidate targets for a tailored, disability-specific, neuroprotective treatment approach in MS. Neurological pathways underling walking, vision, and cognition differ, as do the cells and molecules within the neuroanatomic regions that serve them. MS patients are heterogeneous with regard to which disability is the most severely affected. Thus, we hypothesize that a one size fits all neuroprotective treatment for all disabilities in MS may not be possible. Rather, a disability specific discovery approach is needed. Aim #1. Identify neurodegenerative mechanisms using the region-specific astrocyte transcriptome in EAE, here focusing beyond spinal cord, on optic nerve and hippocampus. Aim #2. Identify neurodegenerative mechanisms using the region-specific neuronal transcriptome in EAE. Aim #3. Use region-specific oligodendrocyte transcriptomics to determine molecular mechanisms of remyelination in two complementary MS models. Aim #4. To begin to translate findings to MS, we will determine whether the alteration in gene expression in key pathways in MS models occurs in MS using human autopsy tissues. Together, this proposal will reveal distinct cell-specific and region-specific mechanisms underlying walking, vision, and cognitive disability in MS.

Key facts

NIH application ID
10178130
Project number
5R01NS109670-04
Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
Principal Investigator
RHONDA R VOSKUHL
Activity code
R01
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2021
Award amount
$444,575
Award type
5
Project period
2018-09-30 → 2023-05-31