Oct 30, 2009
Portland-area Researcher is Awarded $505,949 by the National MS Society for MS Study
Michelle Tashima
Portland-area Researcher is Awarded $505,949 by the National MS Society for MS Study
Dr. Halina Offner of the Portland VA Research Foundation received a grant to develop a possible therapy to stop the immune attack in MS.
The immune system normally protects the body from foreign agents such as bacteria or viruses. However, in MS some immune system cells mistakenly attack myelin, the material that surrounds and protects nerve fibers in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Damage or destruction of myelin interrupts nerve signals and leads to the symptoms of MS, and also leaves nerve fibers vulnerable.
The cells of the immune system use a number of molecules, both on their surfaces and released into the fluid surrounding them, to communicate and coordinate their activity. In this project, Halina Offner, PhD, plans to study substances known as "RTLs" (recombinant T-cell receptor ligands) that are derived from a signaling molecule used by the immune system. In mice with EAE (an animal model of MS), RTLs apparently reduce the activity of the immune system cells that attack myelin. In addition, RTL therapy in mice appears to allow repair of some of the myelin damage caused by EAE.
Dr. Offner and her colleagues are trying to determine how the RTLs work. This research could provide important clues for the possible use of RTLs or similar substances to treat MS.
Follow the link below to read more about:
26 New Research Projects Launched Totaling $9.2 Million to Propel Multiple Sclerosis Research