How mitochondria control calcium levels and cell death in muscular dystrophy

Mitochondrial Regulation of Calcium Homeostasis and Cell Death in Muscular Dystrophy

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11101125

This study is looking at how tiny parts of your cells called mitochondria affect calcium levels and muscle cell health in people with muscular dystrophy, with the hope of finding new ways to protect your muscles from damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101125 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondria in regulating calcium levels and cell death in patients with muscular dystrophy (MD). The study will explore how disruptions in calcium homeostasis contribute to muscle cell death and the progression of MD. By using specific genetic modifications in a mouse model of MD, researchers aim to understand how altering mitochondrial calcium uptake and efflux can impact muscle health. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies to protect muscle cells from damage.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients with muscular dystrophy who are not experiencing significant muscle degeneration or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent muscle degeneration in patients with muscular dystrophy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial function in muscle diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.