How the MKP5 enzyme affects muscle scarring in muscular dystrophy
Dual-specificity phosphatase action in muscle disease
This project looks at whether lowering the enzyme MKP5 can reduce muscle scarring and help people with muscular dystrophy keep stronger, more flexible muscles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11325072 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As someone affected by muscular dystrophy, this research explains how an enzyme called MKP5 may drive the muscle scarring I experience; scientists study it using mice and lab-grown cells to map the process. The team removes or blocks MKP5 in animal models and examines how that changes signals (like TGF-β, p38, and JNK) that cause fibrosis in muscle and connective tissue. They also study fibroblasts and muscle cells to identify where interventions might stop or reverse scarring. These lab findings are intended to point toward therapies that could be tested in people later on.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Duchenne muscular dystrophy or other muscular dystrophies characterized by progressive muscle scarring would be the most relevant candidates for future trials or sample donation.
Not a fit: Patients whose muscle disease is not driven by fibrosis or who already have advanced, irreversible muscle loss may not benefit from MKP5-targeted approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reduce muscle fibrosis and thereby improve muscle strength, flexibility, and quality of life for people with muscular dystrophy.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical mouse work from this group shows that removing MKP5 reduces fibrosis, but MKP5-targeting treatments have not yet been tested in people.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bennett, Anton M — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Bennett, Anton M
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.