Wu, Chun

• Ph.D., University of New Mexico, Alberquerque 

• M.S., Sichuan University 

• B.S., Sichuan University

The research interest in our lab is to investigate the pathogenesis and diagnostic tools of Multiple sclerosis (MS), which is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system's attack on the myelin sheath of neurons. Although the cause of MS remains unclear, there are some hypotheses, among which the viral hypothesis, particularly involving the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), is prominent. The long-term objectives of the project is to develop vaccines that target or modulate the immune response to antigens targeted by autoantibodies in MS patients, reducing the risk of cross-reactivity and subsequent autoimmune attacks on myelin; develop novel therapeutic/diagnostic tools aimed at desensitizing the immune system to these specific antigens, preventing or reducing autoimmune attacks; improve diagnostic tools, allowing for earlier and accurate detection of MS and potentially identifying individuals at risk.

The specific aims are

•               Identify antigens targeted by autoantibodies in MS patients.

•               Investigate if human MS mimics myelin-mimicking proteins from pathogens like EBV or others.

•               Determine if disease type and severity depend on the pathogen and whether disease progression follows a pathogen-specific sequence.

•               Explore if a consortium of microorganisms triggers demyelination and whether the disease type and progression are pathogen-dependent.

•               Assess the role of low vitamin D3 and genetic factors in modulating autoantibody formation and disease course in relation to the initiating pathogen.