Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago have made significant strides in treating multiple sclerosis (MS) through a novel cell therapy that targets inflammation in the central nervous system. Announced on November 7, 2025, this innovative approach employs immune-regulating cells equipped with anti-inflammatory “nanopacks” to alleviate symptoms associated with this chronic autoimmune disease.
Multiple sclerosis affects approximately 1 million people in the United States, disrupting communication between the brain and body due to inflammation of the nervous system. Symptoms can range from fatigue and memory challenges to vision impairment and mobility issues. Current treatments often fall short due to the difficulty of delivering effective anti-inflammatory drugs across the blood-brain barrier.
Innovative Delivery Method
According to lead investigator Zongmin Zhao, an assistant professor at the Retzky College of Pharmacy, the challenge lies in the fact that many therapeutic drugs are unable to penetrate the brain’s protective barrier. “If drugs can get through, they do alleviate some symptoms but are usually not strong enough to provide a complete cure,” Zhao explained.
To address this limitation, Zhao’s lab has focused on leveraging myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which are immune cells that naturally seek out and suppress inflammation. These cells are modified to carry nanopacks filled with rapamycin, an anti-inflammatory agent. This unique combination enhances the ability of the MDSCs to target inflamed areas within the central nervous system.
The therapy, named CNS Immune Targeting Enabled by MDSCs (CITED), has shown promising results in preclinical trials with mice, where it reduced disease progression and improved motor function. “The potential of this work extends well beyond multiple sclerosis,” noted co-author Luyu Zhang, a Ph.D. student in Zhao’s lab. “This method may be a promising strategy for targeted immunotherapy in MS and other autoimmune disorders.”
Broader Implications for Autoimmune Diseases
The researchers anticipate that CITED could have applications beyond MS, possibly aiding in the treatment of other difficult-to-manage conditions such as heart disease and arthritis. The innovative delivery system not only targets the inflammation directly but also reprograms the immune response within the nervous system.
In addition to Zhao and Zhang, the research team includes several other contributors from the University of Illinois at Chicago, such as Endong Zhang, Hanan Algarni, and Dr. Jalees Rehman, who is also affiliated with the University of Illinois Cancer Center. Their findings were published in the journal Science Advances, underscoring the credibility and potential impact of their work in the field of immunotherapy.
This breakthrough represents a significant advancement in the ongoing quest for effective treatments for multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases, offering hope to millions affected worldwide.
