Creating a treatment for neuromuscular diseases using anti-LTBP4.
Official title: Development of anti-LTBP4 as a biologic to treat Neuromuscular Diseases
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11064924 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new treatment that targets a protein called LTBP4 to help improve muscle function and slow down Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), so that patients can feel better and do more in their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $616,017 |
| NIH project number | 4UH3NS127383-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064924 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy or other related neuromuscular disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuromuscular disorders not related to LTBP4 or those who do not meet the specific inclusion criteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a biologic treatment targeting Latent TGF-β Binding Protein 4 (LTBP4) to address neuromuscular disorders, particularly Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The approach involves understanding how LTBP4 influences muscle regeneration and fibrosis by regulating TGF-β activation, which is often excessive in these diseases. By targeting LTBP4, the research aims to improve muscle function and slow disease progression. Patients may benefit from a new therapeutic option that could enhance their quality of life and physical capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that improves muscle function and slows the progression of neuromuscular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in treatments for neuromuscular diseases, targeting LTBP4 represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demonbreun, Alexis R. — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Demonbreun, Alexis R.
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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.