Targeting TREM2 to enhance remyelination in multiple sclerosis

Associate Professor Laura Piccio

The University of Sydney, NSW

| A cure via repair and regeneration | Neurobiology | Project | 2023 | Investigator Led Research |
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Summary

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the immune system attacks a protective sheath, called myelin, which covers nerves in the central nervous system (CNS-brain and spinal cord). Myelin damage is referred as demyelination and the consequence is the disruption of communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The CNS has the potential to generate new myelin (called remyelination) after damage, but for unknown reasons, remyelination fails or is incomplete in MS. Efficient removal of myelin debris from the tissue after demyelination is a prerequisite to remyelination.  

In the CNS, a specific cell type, microglia, can clear out myelin debris after damage. In MS lesions, microglial cells are activated and one of their functions is to pick up, digest and clear myelin debris (called phagocytosis). The mechanisms mediating microglia activation and phagocytosis are unknown. 

Associate Professor Laura Piccio has been studying the role of TREM2, a protein located on the surface of microglia, in the phagocytosis of myelin debris and remyelination. The team’s preliminary results suggest that TREM2 plays a key function in these processes and that activation of TREM2 could enhance myelin debris clearance and remyelination.  

The goal of this study is to investigate the molecular mechanisms supporting remyelination in the CNS with a specific focus on testing the effects of activating TREM2. 

Updated: 22 February, 2023

Stages of the research process

Fundamental laboratory
Research

Laboratory research that investigates scientific theories behind the possible causes, disease progression, ways to diagnose and better treat MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 10+ years
Translational
Research

Research that builds on fundamental scientific research to develop new therapies, medical procedures or diagnostics and advances it closer to the clinic.

Lab to clinic timeline: 5+ years
Clinical Studies
and Clinical Trials

Clinical research is the culmination of fundamental and translational research turning those research discoveries into treatments and interventions for people with MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 1-5 years

Total Funding

  • $247,255

Duration

  • 3 years – starting 2023

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Associate Professor Tomas Kalincik

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Targeting TREM2 to enhance remyelination in multiple sclerosis