Exploring how early nerve cell development relates to neurodegeneration
Official title: Understanding the relationship between precocious neuronal differentiation and early-onset neurodegeneration
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11163460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how early changes in nerve cells might be linked to diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, using tiny worms to mimic human genetic issues, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,413 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG088400-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11163460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who are experiencing symptoms related to neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases that are not linked to early neuronal differentiation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between premature nerve cell differentiation and neurodegenerative diseases using a model organism called C. elegans. By employing advanced genetic techniques like CRISPR, the researchers aim to replicate human genetic mutations that lead to early-onset neurodegeneration. The goal is to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to these diseases, which could pave the way for identifying potential therapeutic targets. This work is particularly important as current treatments for neurodegenerative diseases are limited.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases affecting young adults.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of investigating precocious neuronal differentiation is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Chieh — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chang, Chieh
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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.