Alexander Gill, MD, PhD
Clinician-Scientist Development Award in Multiple Sclerosis
Johns Hopkins University
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience neurologic deficits due to damage to neurons and their coating (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord. Glial cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, support and protect the central nervous system, but may also contribute to the initiation and persistence of MS.
Dr. Gill’s research will study NLRX1, a protein that plays a role in the immune system. Recent studies have shown a correlation between the loss of NLRX1 and an increase in neuroinflammation. This project will explore NLRX1 as a potential therapeutic target for MS and other inflammatory, autoimmune, and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system.
This research is funded by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the American Brain Foundation. Dr. Gill will conduct his research at Johns Hopkins University.