Neuroimmunology related to multiple sclerosis
The goal of our research is to understand the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis of inflammation and demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS-brain and spinal cord). Our studies utilize detailed and quantitative imaging of human CNS, with cutting edge techniques developed at this institution. Other studies employ animal models for the human disease multiple sclerosis (MS), such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and cuprizone toxicity models. Together with the laboratory of Hope Center member Dr. Laura Piccio, we study the effects of adipokines (cytokines derived from adipose tissue) in animal models of MS. We are currently funded to a) use an imaging method called Gradient Echo Plural Contrast imaging in a longitudinal study of patients with different subtypes of MS, b) use diffusion imaging to study MS brains and spinal cords, and c) to perform an open-label study of every-other-day fasting in MS patients undergoing relapse.