Investigating how a fatty acid chaperone affects nerve cell insulation
Official title: Role of a Fatty Acid Chaperone in Schwann Cell Myelination
Funded at Albany Medical College · NIH-11012889 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help people with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease by improving the insulation around their nerve fibers, which could lead to better nerve function and less discomfort, using a special fatty acid in lab animals to see how it works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albany Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $473,310 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134493-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012889 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, particularly those experiencing significant symptoms related to nerve damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with forms of neuropathy unrelated to myelination or those without a diagnosis of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a common inherited condition that affects peripheral nerves. The study aims to enhance myelination, which is the process of insulating nerve fibers, by investigating the role of a fatty acid chaperone in Schwann cells. By improving the signaling pathways involved in myelination, the research seeks to develop potential therapies that could restore nerve function and alleviate symptoms for patients with CMT. The approach includes using animal models to test the effectiveness of enhancing fatty acid levels in myelin.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve nerve function and quality of life for patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing myelination through similar signaling pathways, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Albany Medical College
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Belin, Sophie — Albany Medical College
- Study coordinator: Belin, Sophie
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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.