NIH-funded research Sbir 2 grant

Developing a new platform to test treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Official title: A cross-species preclinical platform to enhance the translation of new medicines

Funded at Curi Bio INC · NIH-10983353 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on better ways to test new treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) by creating models that more closely resemble how human muscles work, so we can find effective therapies for boys with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCuri Bio INC
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$1,149,771
NIH project number5R44TR004557-03
Project IDNIH-10983353 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are newborn males diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy or those who are carriers of the dystrophin gene mutation.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated genetic disorders may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a preclinical platform to improve the testing of new medicines for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe genetic disorder affecting muscle function in newborn males. The approach involves developing advanced models that better mimic human muscle behavior, overcoming limitations of current animal models that may not accurately predict treatment outcomes. By utilizing innovative gene therapy techniques, the research aims to enhance the translation of findings from laboratory settings to real-world applications for patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, potentially improving the quality of life and longevity for affected individuals.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using gene therapy approaches for DMD in animal models, but this specific preclinical platform is a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Curi Bio INC
    Seattle, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Geisse, Nicholas Andrew — Curi Bio INC
  • Study coordinator: Geisse, Nicholas Andrew

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

  • Testing the effectiveness of Botox using advanced cell culture techniques

    This study is looking to create a new way to test how well Botox works by using special lab-grown nerve and muscle cells that act like those in our bodies, which could help improve treatments for conditions that Botox is used for.

    NIH research Curi Bio INC · Seattle, United States · NIH-11001984

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.