What is triggering immune reactions in people with MS?

Dr Stephanie Trend

The University of Western Australia, WA

January 2024

specialisation: Immunology

focus area: Causes and Prevention

funding type: Project

project type: Investigator Led Research

Summary

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition where a person’s immune system attacks the brain and spinal cord. Robust evidence shows that a specific type of immune cell, known as B cells, are important to cause attacks of MS. B cells tend to respond to specific targets like viruses or bacteria to cause immune responses, but can also react to our own body, resulting in autoimmune disease.

One infection that is known to be important for the development of MS is Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), which can cause glandular fever. B cells can have several essential functions, including producing antibodies. Antibodies are small proteins that recognise and bind to specific targets to direct other immune cells in how to respond to infections.

This project involves using laboratory-made proteins that mimic natural antibodies, to identify and study the targets for B cells, including parts of EBV. Identifying the specific targets recognised by B cells in MS may help to diagnose the disease, identify those at higher risk of MS, and develop targeted therapies to be used in future.

lead investigator

co-investigator

Dr Tao Wang
Professor Martyn French
Professor Allan Kermode
Dr Jonatan Leffler

total funding

$249,530

start year

2024

duration

3 years

STATUS

Current project

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

3+ years

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What is triggering immune reactions in people with MS?