Boosting NAD+ to protect motor neurons in ALS
NAD+ metabolism and signaling in ALS models
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10911834
Researchers aim to boost levels of a natural cell molecule called NAD+ to help protect motor neurons in people with ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10911834 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at how increasing NAD+ — a molecule cells use for energy and repair — might help the nerve cells that control muscles in ALS. The team studies how support cells called astrocytes interact with motor neurons using cell cultures and animal models that carry ALS-linked genes. They raise NAD+ levels with related compounds and measure whether motor neurons survive better and which signaling pathways change. The goal is to uncover mechanisms that could guide new treatments for people with ALS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults diagnosed with ALS would be the eventual candidates for therapies or clinical trials based on these findings.
Not a fit: People without ALS or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to therapies that preserve motor neuron function and slow disease progression by restoring NAD+ balance.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies in cells and animal models have shown that raising NAD+ can be neuroprotective, but clear clinical proof in people with ALS remains limited.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VARGAS, MARCELO R — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: VARGAS, MARCELO R
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