NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating brain structure and cognitive function in myotonic dystrophy type 2.

Official title: Brain Structure and Clinical Endpoints in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 2-

Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-11116011 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how myotonic dystrophy type 2 affects the brain and thinking skills in adults, and it aims to gather information that could help us understand the memory and thinking challenges that come with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project startJuly 1, 2022
Project endJune 30, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$41,764
NIH project number3K23NS125110-03S1
Project IDNIH-11116011 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy type 2 who experience cognitive difficulties.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy type 2 or those who do not experience cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how brain structure and function relate to cognitive and motor performance in adults with myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2). The study aims to collect biofluids and additional biomarkers related to Alzheimer's disease to better understand cognitive impairments associated with DM2. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, researchers will explore the impact of DM2 on brain white matter and its correlation with cognitive deficits. This research seeks to fill the gaps in knowledge regarding the cognitive challenges faced by DM2 patients and how these may be influenced by age-related factors.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive impairments in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 2.

How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research specifically on DM2 and cognitive function, studies on related conditions have shown promising results in understanding cognitive deficits through brain imaging.

Where this research is happening

  • Wake Forest University Health Sciences
    Winston-Salem, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Puwanant, Araya — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
  • Study coordinator: Puwanant, Araya

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.