Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) and the most frequent neurological disease in young adults, leading to irreversible clinical deficits and premature retirement.
On the one hand, we aim to dissect the basic mechanisms of B-cell driven disease, and in particular the contribution of B cells and autoantibodies to the immunopathology of MS.
Next to studying MS patient samples, cell lines and primary cells of the CNS, we are using experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice, which is the most common animal model of MS.
Our overarching goal is to develop novel therapeutic options as well as biomarkers for clinical disease monitoring and treatment success prediction.
On the other hand, we are interested in strategies to promote neuroregeneration and remyelination in the CNS.