Astrocyte exosomes and motor neuron axon health in ALS
Dysfunctional Astroglial Exosome to (motor) Neuron Axon Signaling in ALS
['FUNDING_R01'] · TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON · NIH-11264766
This project looks at tiny packets released by brain support cells (astrocytes) to see how they help or harm motor neuron axons in people with ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11264766 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine tiny vesicles called exosomes that astrocytes release and study how those exosomes affect motor neuron axons in ALS. They will test exosomes from mouse ALS models and from human ALS patient–derived astroglia on motor neurons grown in the lab to watch axon growth and survival. The team will focus on an adhesion molecule called HepaCAM carried on exosomes to see whether it sends protective or damaging signals to axons. Some experiments may use animal models to confirm findings and point to possible targets for future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with ALS—especially those willing to donate tissue or biological samples for lab studies—would be the most relevant candidates to contribute to this work.
Not a fit: People without ALS or those with very advanced, end-stage disease are unlikely to see direct benefit from this basic- and preclinical-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new ways to protect motor neuron axons and point to targets for treatments that slow or prevent ALS progression.
How similar studies have performed: Other research shows exosomes can both spread harmful proteins and carry protective signals in neurodegenerative diseases, but focusing on astrocyte HepaCAM signaling to motor axons is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YANG, YONGJIE — TUFTS UNIVERSITY BOSTON
- Study coordinator: YANG, YONGJIE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease