Finding ways to protect and improve movement in patients with cerebellar ataxia
Identifying symptomatic and neuroprotective strategies for cereballar ataxia
This study is looking into what causes cerebellar ataxia, a condition that makes it hard to coordinate movements, by exploring how certain genes affect important brain cells, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve symptoms for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10605349 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the underlying causes of cerebellar ataxia, a condition that affects coordination and movement. It focuses on how certain genetic factors lead to the degeneration of specific brain cells, particularly Purkinje cells, which are crucial for motor control. By studying the role of potassium channels in these processes, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could restore normal cell function and improve symptoms. Patients may be involved in assessments that help understand their condition better and explore new treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxias or related coordination disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with ataxia caused by non-genetic factors or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve movement and coordination for patients with cerebellar ataxia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing potassium channel dysfunction in related conditions, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shakkottai, Vikram Govindaraju — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shakkottai, Vikram Govindaraju
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.