Neuroprotection and Repair

Multiple Sclerosis is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with inflammatory and neurodegenerative components. Current immunomodulatory therapies reduce the occurrence of new lesions but are incapable of enhancing repair. This has led to scarce effective treatment options for progressive forms of MS, where there is remyelination failure. Traditional single-molecule approaches have underestimated the complexity of the disease, and consequently bench to bedside translation has failed. Remyelination is an exciting potential approach for treating MS and particularly progressive MS that may restore neuronal function, but an effective pharmacologic intervention remains elusive. Multimodal strategies capable of simultaneously regulating diverse pathways, particularly those harnessing endogenous repair mechanisms, are attractive therapeutic alternatives. We are investigating several such-strategies in animal models of MS.

Biomarkers

Currently, the only clinically relevant biomarker in MS is MRI. Emerging fluid biomarkers are next in line for the spotlight- but few of the current candidates offer much in the way of pathophysiological insight. We are exploring other fluid biomarkers that may be able to predict disease progression and activity, but that may also offer clues of potential therapeutic interventions.

The Gut-Brain Axis

A growing body of evidence from preclinical, translational, and clinical studies supports a bidirectional relationship within the gut-brain axis that contributes to neurological symptoms and quality of life in individuals with MS. However, most research has focused on the microbiome, while the intestinal barrier has been comparatively ignored. The gut microbiome mostly resides in the lumen, separated from the host by the complex intestinal barrier. We are trying to understand what the role of the intestinal barrier is in regulating neuroinflammation in animal models of MS; this could help us understand how events in the gut may have impact on events in the central nervous system, and it could offer a novel therapeutic avenue.