Clinical Trials > Multiple Sclerosis Research Center

Multiple Sclerosis Research Center

The Multiple Sclerosis Research Center focuses on the study of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) as an animal model of Multiple Sclerosis. Specific research areas include the role of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin- 12 (IL- 12), IL- 23, and their receptors in the patho-genesis of EAE, the mechanisms of intravenous immune tolerance induced by myelin proteins, and the role of the Insulin- like Growth Factor (IGF) in central nervous system remyelination.

Another area of research in collaboration with the Department of Radiology is the use of novel imaging modalities for EAE, such as the combined use of high- field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) to track autoimmune T cells in vivo. In addition to basic studies of neuro-immunology and neuro- biology in EAE, the Multiple Sclerosis Research Center will also conduct immunologic studies in MS patients undergoing conventional and experimental therapies. This is done in collaboration with the Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Clinical Center.