Cutting Through Complexity: The Promise Of Biomarkers To Discover, Diagnose, And Treat Antibody-associated Demyelination
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$438,768.00
Summary
Patients with damage to myelin, the sheath around nerve cells in the brain, have “demyelinating disorders” which can result in severe disability including blindness and paralysis. In some patients, their immune system mistakenly targets certain proteins in the brain. This research project will identify new targets in currently undiagnosed patients, increase our understanding of underlying disease processes, and evaluate optimal treatment strategies in these patients to improve their outcomes.
Using Non-invasive Magnetic Stimulation To Promote Remyelination
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$664,869.00
Summary
In patients with multiple sclerosis, brain insulation is lost from nerves. This leads to permanent and progressive disability. We have identified a non-invasive method of magnetic stimulation, and have shown that it increases the number of new insulating cells added to the brain. In this study we will determine whether this new treatment can promote insulation repair in a model of multiple sclerosis.
Identification And Early Treatment Of Autoimmune Brain Disease In Children
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$406,491.00
Summary
Acquired brain injury affects 2% of Australians, particularly young people, and can result in permanent disability. Most acquired brain injury is not reversible, however ‘autoimmune brain disease' is due to an overactive immune system and is treatable with modulation of the immune system. By measuring antibodies in the blood, this fellowship will result in early identification and treatment of autoimmune brain disease, and improve outcomes.
The Role Of Gas6 And The TAM Receptors In Central Demyelination
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$506,416.00
Summary
In Multiple Sclerosis, oligodendrocytes, the myelin-producing cells of the brain, are damaged and myelin is lost in a process called demyelination. This process also involves the brain's immune cells, called microglia. Both cell types are influenced by a factor called Gas6, which signals through proteins called Tyro3, Axl and Mer. We have shown that levels of Gas6 can affect the severity of demyelination in mice. We plan to further study the effects of these proteins during demyelination.