Mark Milner, PhD

2026 Jeanne C. Mayer Next Generation Research Grant in Multiple Sclerosis

Could blocking certain immune cells protect vision in multiple sclerosis?

Institution: University of Michigan

Project Summary: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain and spinal cord, damaging the insulation around nerve fibers and disrupting communication between brain cells. One type of immune cell in the brain, called microglia, plays both helpful and harmful roles in this process. While some microglia help clear debris and support healing, a specific kind called disease-associated microglia (DAM) may actually worsen damage by breaking down healthy connections between nerve cells. This project seeks to understand when DAM are harmful, when they are helpful, and how they influence the brain’s ability to see and process visual information.

To do this, Dr. Milner’s research will test what happens when DAM are blocked from forming. The team will use two approaches: one that removes a key gene in microglia and another that “turns down” that same gene using an existing drug. The study will also examine whether blocking DAM later in the disease could help the brain repair damaged connections.

By uncovering exactly how and when DAM help or harm the nervous system, this research may guide the development of new MS treatments aimed at protecting vision, preserving brain circuits, and supporting recovery.

Check out an article on Dr. Milner’s research in MLive.

This research is funded by the Herbert R. Mayer and Jeanne C. Mayer Foundation through the American Brain Foundation.