Welcome to the Brier lab
The Brier lab uses neuroimaging to study multiple sclerosis (MS). Advances in disease modifying therapies allow for the reduction of inflammatory relapses in patients with MS. However, despite these incredible treatments, many patients still experience progressive disability accumulation associated with neurodegeneration. We are principally interested in how this progressive degenerative pathology emerges in the context of seemingly well treated relapsing MS.
Our lab uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) to study the pathological drivers of tissue damage and disability in MS. We are interested in understanding how unrecognized or under-treated aspects of MS pathophysiology contribute to symptoms, clinical worsening, and neurodegeneration in patients with MS. Our goal is to further understand how MS exerts its pathological influence on the brain and spine in hopes of identifying novel therapeutic avenues for patients living with MS.
Interested in joining us?
Learn more about the open positions in our lab.
Matthew R. Brier, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Matthew Brier grew up in a suburb of Dallas, Texas and completed his undergraduate degree in neuroscience at the University of Texas at Dallas. He then moved to St. Louis and completed his MD and PhD at Washington University in St. Louis. He completed residency training, including a year as administrative chief resident, at Barnes Jewish Hospital and Washington University in St. Louis. He completed a year of sub-specialty training in MS and joined the faculty in 2021. Brier sees patients in the John L. Trotter Multiple Sclerosis Center. His research lab is located within the Neuroimaging Labs Research Center.