UCC Researcher Dr Éanna Fennell Wins Wellcome Trust MS Grant

Women are up to three times more likely than men to develop multiple sclerosis, and a major new funding package aims to find out why. University College Cork researcher Dr Éanna Fennell has been awarded a €2.1 million grant by the Wellcome Trust to investigate the biological drivers behind this sex disparity.

Investigating the X Chromosome and Epstein-Barr Virus

The study will focus on whether the X chromosome plays a role in shaping immune responses, specifically regarding the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is strongly linked to the development of multiple sclerosis. Across the UK and Ireland, an estimated 160,000 individuals manage the condition, which is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the protective sheath encasing nerve fibers in the spinal cord and brain.

Despite these patient numbers, the underlying mechanisms driving the difference remain poorly understood. His team plans to use genetic engineering to introduce or correct specific genetic differences in laboratory-grown cells.

“By bringing together genetics, immunology and sophisticated models, we hope to better understand the mechanisms driving the disease and identify new opportunities for therapeutic intervention,” Dr Fennell said.

Prof John F. Cryan, UCC Vice President for Research and Innovation, congratulated Dr Fennell on winning the prestigious award. He noted that the project will provide a new framework for understanding sex differences in MS pathways.

“His work will combine research in genetics and immunology to give a better understanding of MS, provide a new framework for understanding sex differences in MS and lead to new pathways that can be targeted for more effective therapeutic strategies,” Prof Cryan stated.

Wellcome Trust Awards are granted to scientists with the potential to become international research leaders. These grants fund bold and creative research initiatives aimed at producing major breakthroughs in our comprehension of human health, well-being, and existence.