How the ALS-linked gene ZNF106 affects motor neuron survival
Generation and analysis of mouse models to define the roles of the ALS-associated factor Zfp106/ZNF106 in neurodegeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11239814
Researchers are creating and studying mouse models to learn how the gene ZNF106 (Zfp106 in mice) influences motor neuron loss in ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11239814 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
I would hear that scientists are making mice with changes in the mouse version of the ALS-linked gene ZNF106 to see how those changes affect nerve cells that control movement. They will study how the protein binds RNA and how losing its function leads to early and severe motor neuron loss in these mice. The team will analyze brain and spinal cord tissue, track behavior and movement over time, and measure biochemical and cellular changes linked to neurodegeneration. Findings aim to clarify whether ZNF106 normally protects motor neurons and how its dysfunction could contribute to ALS in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with ALS — especially those with early-onset disease or rare genetic changes near ZNF106 — or families interested in contributing clinical data or samples could be relevant partners for this research.
Not a fit: Patients without ALS or those seeking immediate treatment benefits should know this is preclinical work and is unlikely to offer direct medical benefit now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new biological pathways or targets that might be used to develop future ALS treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Mouse models have previously helped reveal how other ALS-linked genes cause motor neuron loss, but the role of ZNF106 is relatively new and less well tested.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BLACK, BRIAN L — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: BLACK, BRIAN L
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.
Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease