The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is committed driving pathways to cures by supporting the MS research workforce and other research funding opportunities.
The organization has issued a request for applications for research that addresses gaps in the knowledge of the underlying biology of CNS remyelination in MS, the factors or processes that modulate this process, and methods to measure remyelination. Additionally, research into neuroprotective mechanisms with the potential to prolong neuronal viability for remyelination is encouraged. The supported research is intended to lay the foundation for the next generation of therapeutic approaches.
Grants of up to $1 million in total costs (including indirect costs where applicable) for up to three years of support will be provided and must be justified based on the scientific work plan.
In addition, the program supports the development or refinement of tools needed to support preclinical and clinical studies of remyelination and neuroprotection in MS, including in vitro and animal models that more closely reflect MS pathophysiology and clinical biomarkers with utility for measuring CNS myelination and neuroprotection. Applications proposing the testing of new or established biomarkers must include relevant components of analytical method validation to ensure that a test, tool, or instrument is adequate for its proposed context of use.
Areas of specific interest may include but are not limited to: studies of mechanisms underlying endogenous remyelination in MS, investigations into the basis of the heterogeneity of endogenous remyelination observed across lesion types and between individuals living with MS, studies of factors that modulate remyelination in MS, studies of mechanisms to provide neuroprotection or oligodendrocyte protection, in vivo and in vitro model systems that more closely mimic MS pathology with utility to study interventions supporting remyelination, clinically translatable biomarkers for the measurement of remyelination or neuroprotection, and preclinical proof of concept studies for potential therapeutic targets to promote remyelination or neuroprotection (studies could involve small molecule drugs, cell-based strategies, biologics, genetic models, or other suitable approaches).
Eligible applicants include investigators at not-for-profit research institutions. Collaborations with commercial organizations are allowed. Applicants should possess an MD, PhD, or equivalent and be considered eligible by their institution to apply for grant support. Postdoctoral fellows, residents, and other trainees are not eligible to apply.
Preliminary applications are due January 3, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET, and upon review, selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application, due January 10, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Please contact Lynn Wong if you are interested in applying to this opportunity