Investigating a protein that helps prevent nerve cell damage in a specific genetic disorder.
Developing Tools to Probe DnaJB6 Dynamics in Spinobulbular Muscular Atrophy
This study is looking at how a special protein called DnaJB6 can help protect cells from damage caused by a mutation linked to Spinobulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA), with the goal of finding new ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11082541 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on Spinobulbar Muscular Atrophy (SBMA), a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the accumulation of mutated androgen receptor proteins. The study aims to understand how the molecular chaperone protein DnaJB6 interacts with these mutated proteins and other chaperones to prevent cell damage. By exploring the dynamics of DnaJB6 and its complexes, researchers hope to develop chemical probes that can help study and potentially treat SBMA. The research will utilize both cell and animal models to test these new tools and their effectiveness in combating the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Spinobulbar Muscular Atrophy or those with a genetic predisposition to the condition.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of neurodegenerative diseases that do not involve DnaJB6 or androgen receptor mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of SBMA and potentially other related neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting molecular chaperones for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Oleta Tanitrea — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Oleta Tanitrea
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.