Exploring early signs of autonomic dysfunction in Huntington’s disease
Investigating Autonomic Dysfunction as an Early Pathologic Feature of Huntington’s Disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11067752
This study is looking at whether problems with the body's automatic functions, like heart rate and breathing, could be an early sign of Huntington's disease in kids who have the gene for it, using special brain scans to help find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11067752 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates whether dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is an early indicator of Huntington’s disease (HD) in children who carry the gene responsible for the condition. Using advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the study aims to analyze the connections between brain regions that control the ANS and assess unique physiological measures of its function. The goal is to identify early signs of neurodegeneration that could lead to new therapeutic targets for HD. Participants will undergo non-invasive imaging and physiological assessments to gather data on their autonomic function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children who carry the gene expansion associated with Huntington’s disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not carry the Huntington’s disease gene expansion may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and potential therapeutic interventions for children at risk of Huntington’s disease.
How similar studies have performed: While autonomic dysfunction has been observed in adults with Huntington’s disease, this research is pioneering in its focus on children and the early identification of these symptoms.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHULTZ, JORDAN — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: SCHULTZ, JORDAN
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.