Founded in 2024, the Institute for Glial Sciences (IGS) at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine is on a mission to illuminate the hidden impact of glia on disease and unlock the era of glial medicines.
Glia constitute the majority of cells in our brains and play diverse, essential roles alongside neurons that we are just beginning to understand. It is now clear that glia are central players in virtually every disease affecting the nervous system, from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis, to neurodevelopmental conditions like autism, to neuropsychiatric disorders like depression, to numerous cancers.
Targeting glia is an untapped opportunity to develop urgently needed treatments that could benefit millions. IGS is the only institute of its kind focused on this promising new field. By integrating experts from various fields, IGS pursues advances that would not be possible in a single laboratory and focuses on translating discoveries into therapies. Driving innovation and collaboration as a hub for progress, IGS has a bold vision to make Case Western Reserve the global center of glial sciences.
“The Institute for Glial Sciences is a manifestation of our collective aspiration to deepen the understanding of glial cells,” Paul Tesar said. “These integral components of our nervous systems have long been overshadowed, and through the institute, we aim to shed light on their complexity, developing treatments that could revolutionize how we approach neurological care.”