Grant: Project Grant

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease in which the insulating sheath that surrounds nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord begins to degrade. This can ultimately lead to significant impairment of movement and cognitive decline. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS incidence in the world, and thus it is crucial that we study the causes of, and potential therapies for, this disease. In particular, the "secondary progressive" SP form of MS affects a little less than half of all patients, yet there are no treatments for this form. MS is complex disease in which many different types of cells can contribute. In this research project, we focus on two cell types, the CD4+ helper T cell and the CD8+ killer T cell. Data indicates that both are involved in MS, but their exact role is not well understood. Here, we aim to better understand the molecular signals that make CD4+ and CD8+ T cells cause damage to the nervous system. To help us do this, we developed a new experimental model in which mice develop SP-like MS at a frequency similar to that seen in humans. We will use gene knockout and gene therapy techniques to understand the role of specific genes to the disease process. These efforts will help identify drug targets, and may also help generate tools with which we can better predict disease progression.