Identifying biomarkers for multiple system atrophy using gene expression analysis
Official title: A transcriptomics-based approach to identify quantitative biomarkers for multiple system atrophy
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10998160 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how multiple system atrophy (MSA) affects brain cells by examining changes in their genes, and it aims to find new ways to diagnose and treat the condition, with opportunities for patients to help by sharing samples.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | December 7, 2024 |
| Project end | December 6, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,269 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS139652-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998160 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would be individuals diagnosed with multiple system atrophy or those at risk for developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders unrelated to multiple system atrophy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to uncover changes in gene expression related to multiple system atrophy (MSA), a severe neurodegenerative disorder. By utilizing RNA sequencing on human-derived neurons affected by MSA, the researchers will explore how the disease alters neuronal function and identify potential biomarkers that could aid in diagnosis and treatment. The study will also involve validating these findings using brain tissue samples from MSA patients and conducting experiments in a mouse model to further understand the disease mechanisms. Patients may have the opportunity to contribute to this research by providing biological samples.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets for multiple system atrophy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for MSA as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khedmatgozar, Chase Reza — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Khedmatgozar, Chase Reza
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Integrated MRI biomarkers to diagnose and monitor multiple system atrophy
This project will help doctors use MRI markers to better diagnose multiple system atrophy and track how the disease progresses.
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Clinical Trial Readiness for Multiple System Atrophy
A multi-center study to help people with multiple system atrophy by creating better clinical and biological measures to use in future drug trials.
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Single-cell brain profiling to map MSA cell changes
Researchers will map gene activity in individual brain cells from people who had multiple system atrophy to understand how the disease affects cells in key brain regions.
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Investigating how inflammation caused by alpha-synuclein affects multiple system atrophy
This study is looking at how inflammation affects multiple system atrophy (MSA) and aims to understand how the immune system might play a role in the disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with MSA.
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Understanding brain inflammation in multiple system atrophy
This research explores how a specific immune signal, interferon-gamma, contributes to brain damage in multiple system atrophy.
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Single-cell gene map of brains from people with multiple system atrophy
This project reads gene activity in individual brain cells from people with multiple system atrophy to find cell-specific changes linked to the disease.
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.