How the DLK protein controls nerve fiber breakdown
Regulation of axonal degeneration by the DLK kinase
This research looks at how a protein called DLK and its effects on STMN2 influence early nerve-fiber loss in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and ALS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11119023 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying a protein called DLK that can trigger breakdown of axons — the long fibers that let nerve cells communicate. They examine how DLK promotes loss of axon maintenance factors such as NMNAT2 and STMN2 using animal models, patient-derived cells, and human tissue samples. The team manipulates DLK and STMN2 levels to see whether preserving STMN2 can protect axons from early degeneration. Findings could point to new ways to keep nerve connections intact in Alzheimer's, ALS, and related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, or ALS — especially those willing to provide samples or join future trials focused on DLK/STMN2 pathways — would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People without neurodegenerative conditions or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new treatments that protect nerve fibers and slow progression of Alzheimer's disease and ALS.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab studies and analyses of patient tissue/cells have linked DLK activation and STMN2 loss to axon degeneration, but therapies targeting this pathway are still early and experimental.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diantonio, Aaron — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Diantonio, Aaron
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.