Identification of new targets to block inflammation in MS

In MS, cells of the immune system invade the brain and spinal cord and cause tissue damage that leads to reduced brain and spinal cord function. Potential new treatments include drugs that can block the passage of the cells of the immune system into the brain and spinal cord that promote inflammation.

In this project, Ms Monaghan will investigate certain markers on the surface of immune cells called CD4+ T cells. These markers, called chemokine receptors, help regulate the migration and activation of immune cells in response to inflammation, infection, and injury. She is particularly interested in identifying additional markers on these cells to see whether they are a specific type of immune cell that causes damage, called Th17 cells.

She will also use cutting-edge technology to create a detailed picture of the type of CD4+ T cells that infiltrate the brain and spinal cord.

This information will be invaluable for the design of next generation therapeutics that selectively block movement of inflammatory T cells into the brain in MS.