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Testing a protein-targeting drug to reduce inflammation in multiple sclerosis

Plain-English translation of NCT03850301 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated October 2024 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

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This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

Researchers are testing whether two medications called and can help calm the immune system in people with multiple sclerosis. These medications work by targeting a specific protein in immune cells called TSPO, which may help shift these cells from causing inflammation to promoting healing. The study will compare how these two medications work in both people with MS and healthy volunteers.

In multiple sclerosis, certain immune cells become stuck in an inflammatory state that damages the nervous system. This trial is testing whether targeting the TSPO protein can help switch these cells to a repair mode, which might slow disease progression and improve outcomes.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 35 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) with a disability level between 3.5 and 6.5, or you are a healthy volunteer
you are able to give informed written consent and follow study procedures
you are willing to avoid alcohol during the study medication periods
you are not pregnant, not breastfeeding, and willing to use contraception if of childbearing potential

You likely don't qualify if…

you have other active neurological diseases besides MS or migraine
you are currently taking immune-suppressing medications, certain anxiety or sleep medications, or oral contraceptives
you have significant kidney, liver, or blood count abnormalities
you have myasthenia gravis or problems absorbing certain sugars (lactose or glucose-galactose malabsorption)
you are taking blood thinners or certain other medications that interact with the study drugs

What participation looks like

You will visit the study site to receive one of the two medications, then return after a period of time to receive the other medication. Between visits, the research team will collect blood samples to measure how your immune cells respond to the treatment. The study involves blood tests and careful monitoring to track any changes in your immune system, with the goal of understanding whether these medications can help calm inflammation in MS.

Testing a protein-targeting drug to reduce inflammation in multiple sclerosis

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)