Role of m6A mRNA methylation in CNS remyelination and inflammation

Our previous studies have shown that mRNA methylation is critical in the development of myelin-producing oligodendrocyte cells. However, whether this mechanism plays a role in the protection of myelin-producing oligodendrocyte cells in MS disease is unclear. Therefore, the proposed project’s aims are to (1) study the role of mRNA methylation in the CNS remyelination process. In this aim, our studies will focus on evaluating the role of mRNA methylation on the development of myelin-producing oligodendrocyte cells in response to demyelination. Further, we will investigate the impact of mRNA methylation in the CNS remyelination process using a mouse model with MS-like symptoms. Further studies will be dedicated to (2) exploring the role of mRNA methylation in protecting myelin-producing oligodendrocyte cells from an inflammatory environment (similar to MS). This study will provide useful information on whether the survival of these cells can be enhanced against inflammation. Overall, outcomes from these studies might help to discover novel pathways/targets as a new treatment for MS which can be also further studied.