How mutant Huntingtin affects the growth of brain support cells in Huntington's disease
Effect of mutant HTT on the development and maturation of astrocytes
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10903500
This study is looking at how a faulty protein related to Huntington's disease affects brain support cells called astrocytes, with the hope of finding out how these changes might contribute to the disease's development.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10903500 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mutant Huntingtin (mHTT) in the development and maturation of astrocytes, which are crucial support cells in the brain. By examining how mHTT influences these cells during neurodevelopment, the study aims to uncover early molecular changes that may contribute to Huntington's disease (HD). The research utilizes advanced techniques like single-nuclei RNA sequencing to analyze astrocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells and mouse models of HD. The goal is to understand the dysfunction of astrocytes in HD and how this impacts the progression of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Huntington's disease or those at risk due to family history.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to Huntington's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of Huntington's disease and potential therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BURNS, MARA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: BURNS, MARA
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.