Identifying non-invasive biomarkers for myotonic dystrophy
Official title: Clinical and Non-Invasive Biomarkers of Myotonic Dystrophy
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10991811 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for easy and safe ways to track how myotonic dystrophy changes over time and how well new treatments are working, so that people with this condition can get better care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,880 |
| NIH project number | 5K23NS118048-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991811 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy, including both type 1 and type 2.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or those without a diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates myotonic dystrophy, a common muscular dystrophy in adults, by focusing on identifying reliable and non-invasive biomarkers to monitor disease progression and treatment response. The approach includes using advanced techniques such as skeletal muscle MRI, ultrasound, and electrical impedance myography. By developing these biomarkers, the research aims to provide better tools for tracking the disease's slow progression and evaluating the effectiveness of emerging therapies. This project is particularly relevant for both types of myotonic dystrophy, which are often underdiagnosed.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and treatment strategies for patients with myotonic dystrophy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using non-invasive biomarkers for monitoring other muscular dystrophies, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gonzalez-Perez, Paloma — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gonzalez-Perez, Paloma
Related research
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A study looking for easy, noninvasive biomarkers in urine and blood to track disease activity in people with myotonic dystrophy type 1.
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This study tests whether the calcium‑channel blocker amlodipine can improve symptoms and survival in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1).
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Biological factors that drive variability in myotonic dystrophy
This grant explores why myotonic dystrophy can look very different from person to person by studying its genetic changes and how they affect muscle in adults.
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.