Project R-5896

Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cells as potential modulators of Multiple Sclerosis (Research)

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the brains and bone marrow. In MS patients, the immune system attacks the insulating layer around the nerves. MS-lesions arise on these places, resulting in a neurological deficit. The available MS-medication is very successful in slowing down disease exacerbations, however it does not change the brain damage itself. Especially, for patients having a progressive disease progression, reacting only little on existing cures, this is a major problem. Given this issue, in recent years it is investigated whether stem cells could tackle this issue. In this project it is examined if adult pluripotent stem cells from the bone marrow could ameliorate the brain damage. Specifically, we will investigate which protecting molecules are excreted from these stem cells when they come into contact with the inflammatory factors, and how these factors can promote the survival of the brain cells. Promising factors will be tested further in an animal model for MS to examine their therapeutic value.

01 January 2015 - 30 April 2016