Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that typically begins in young adulthood. It is characterized by episodic inflammatory demyelination of neurons, which disrupts the conduction of nerve impulses. The underlying pathophysiology involves an abnormal immune response in which the body's immune system attacks oligodendrocytes, leading to the demyelination of neurons within the central nervous system (CNS). Currently, MS remains incurable, and while some treatments can be effective, they come with significant limitations. These include immunosuppression and the risk of serious side effects, such as life-threatening infections. Additionally, existing therapies fail to prevent neurodegeneration, induce remyelination, or offer adequate efficacy for secondary progressive MS. Thus, the identification of new molecular targets and therapeutic strategies is critical.

A major factor in MS pathology is the disruption of the blood-CNS barrier (BCNSB) and the formation of fibrotic scarring in the CNS, both of which contribute to an environment that inhibits remyelination. Our goal is to uncover the cellular mechanisms driving BCNSB disruption and CNS fibrotic scarring, which significantly contribute to the chronic inhibitory microenvironment that impairs proper remyelination and axonal protection in MS. By identifying the signaling pathways involved in these processes, we aim to discover novel molecular targets for MS treatment that preserve immune function, offering safer and more effective therapeutic options.

1. Literature Review and Background Research: Conduct extensive literature reviews to stay updated on recent discoveries about the blood-CNS barrier, fibrotic scarring, and their roles in MS pathology. Summarize and present key findings in lab meetings to help shape experimental designs.

2. Assist in Experimental Design and Preparation: Participate in designing experiments that investigate the cellular mechanisms of BCNSB disruption and CNS fibrotic scarring. Assist with setting up experiments, preparing reagents, and ensuring proper laboratory protocols.

3. Cell Culture and Handling: Learn and apply fundamental techniques for culturing and maintaining cell lines. Contribute to testing various molecular pathways involved in BCNSB disruption.

4. Data Collection and Analysis: Help in data collection from experiments. Learn to use specific software for data analysis, and contribute to interpreting findings in relation to MS progression.

5. Immunohistochemistry and Microscopy: Assist in performing immunohistochemistry to identify changes in CNS tissue or cell cultures, focusing on markers related to demyelination or fibrosis. Help analyze tissue sections and microscopy images, learning to identify key features of MS pathology.

6. Presentation and Communication Skills: Contribute to preparing figures and presentations for lab meetings, scientific posters, or manuscripts.

By playing these roles, the student would gain invaluable hands-on research experience while providing essential support to the broader goals of the MS project. Additionally, this involvement would expose them to a multi-disciplinary approach in neuroscience and immunology.

Participating in this MS research project offers an undergraduate student invaluable experience that will prepare them for future academic and professional pursuits. First, the hands-on exposure to laboratory techniques, such as cell culture, immunohistochemistry, and data analysis, will build a strong foundation in experimental design and execution, critical for any future research career in biomedical or neuroscience fields.

Second, the project cultivates problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The student will engage in identifying key cellular mechanisms and interpreting experimental results, a process that enhances their ability to think analytically and troubleshoot complex issues-skills that are essential for graduate school or industry roles.

Moreover, working in a collaborative environment teaches effective communication and teamwork, as they will need to coordinate with other lab members. This experience fosters the ability to contribute to team-based scientific endeavors, a common practice in research institutions and biotech companies alike.

Overall, this project will not only strengthen their technical abilities but also give them a competitive edge in applying for advanced degrees, internships, or roles in research-focused organizations.