The impact of inflammation on DNA damage in brain cells in primary progressive MS

Summary

Damage to the DNA in our cells is a natural part of the ageing process. Previously, Associate Professor Justin Rubio and his team proposed that inflammation in the brains of people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) could potentially accelerate DNA damage in neurons and oligodendrocytes (myelin-producing cells). They proposed that this could play an important role in neurodegeneration and progressive MS.

Their preliminary work suggests that this may indeed be the case and that people living with primary progressive MS may be more affected than others.

This project aims to replicate these initial findings with a view to providing a better understanding of the role of DNA damage in primary progressive MS and downstream opportunities for developing treatments.

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