Exploring how traumatic injuries may contribute to ALS and frontotemporal dementia.

Investigating the role of traumatic injury in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (ALS/FTD)

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10704081

This study is looking at how traumatic brain injuries might lead to conditions like ALS and frontotemporal dementia, using a special fly model to find clues that could help us understand and treat these diseases better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10704081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). By utilizing a unique TBI fly model, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link these injuries to neurodegenerative diseases. The research focuses on identifying specific pathological markers, such as TDP-43, that may indicate the progression of ALS and FTD. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment options for these conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of traumatic brain injury and symptoms of ALS or FTD.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of traumatic brain injury or those not exhibiting symptoms of ALS or FTD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from ALS and FTD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between traumatic brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease, Gehrig's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.