Role and therapeutic potential of Neuregulin-1 as a modulator of neuroinflammation and remyelination in multiple sclerosis

Start Term
End Term
Funding Amount
$358,321
Affiliation(s)
University of Manitoba
Geographic Region(s) / Province(s)
Manitoba
Researcher(s)

Summary:

  • Neuregulin-1, a protein that may be essential for the formation of myelin, is significantly depleted in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions in human brain tissue samples.
  • As many of the current MS therapies work by suppressing the immune response, there is a need to identify effective therapies that specifically promote repair and renewal of the damaged myelin.
  • The research team will:
    • Investigate whether Neuregulin-1 treatment can result in myelin repair and prevent disease progression.
    • Evaluate the potential role of Neuregulin-1 in reducing inflammatory processes in MS.

Project Description:

Loss of or damage to myelin, the protective covering over nerve fibers, is one of the more well-known characteristics of MS. Dr. Soheila Karimi’s research team has identified a protein called Neuregulin-1 which is important for the development of oligodendrocytes, the myelin-producing cells. Neuregulin-1 is significantly reduced in MS lesions and might be one of the causes for failure in myelin repair.Increasing Neuregulin-1 levels is theorized to enhance oligodendrocyte replacement, protect nerve fibers, and reduce scar formation. Dr. Karimi’s project will determine the role of Neuregulin-1 in demyelination and neurodegeneration using animals that have an MS-like disease. To perform this research, both genetic and pharmacological approaches will be used to reduce or enhance the activity of Neuregulin-1. Preliminary results from this project shows that Neuregulin-1 treatment leads to a better recovery, with no adverse effects, in an animal model of MS. Furthermore, Neuregulin-1 seems to improve functional recovery in behaviour by reducing factors that prevent myelin repair and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Ongoing work will further determine how it functions and its efficacy and safety as a new treatment strategy for MS.

Potential Impact: Determine if Neuregulin-1 could be a potential treatment target aimed at repairing myelin in MS.

Project Status: Closed

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