Exploring immune system interactions to improve treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Developing co-stimulatory blockade as a therapeutic strategy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10650296

This study is looking at how the immune system affects muscles in people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and aims to find ways to help reduce muscle damage and improve muscle health, which could lead to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10650296 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance the understanding of how the immune system interacts with dystrophic muscle in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). By investigating the roles of different immune cell populations, the project seeks to identify ways to manipulate these interactions to reduce muscle damage and promote regeneration. The approach focuses on targeting costimulatory signals, particularly the CTLA4 molecule, to shift the immune response towards beneficial outcomes for muscle health. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies that could improve their muscle function and overall quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, particularly those experiencing muscle degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated muscle disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly improve muscle regeneration and function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in manipulating immune responses to improve muscle health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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 →

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.