Investigating how a gene affects motivation and behavior in Prader-Willi Syndrome
Official title: Role of hypothalamic MAGEL2 in motivation
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10951366 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called MAGEL2 affects motivation and behavior in people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, using mice to learn more about why they might struggle with weight and metabolism, which could help find better treatments for managing the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $168,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03MH137614-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951366 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome, particularly those experiencing obesity and related metabolic challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Prader-Willi Syndrome or those who do not exhibit symptoms related to motivation and behavior may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the MAGEL2 gene in the hypothalamus and its impact on motivation and behavior, particularly in individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). By studying mouse models with a loss of the MAGEL2 gene, researchers aim to uncover the cellular mechanisms that lead to obesity and metabolic issues associated with PWS. The approach involves examining how changes in MAGEL2 expression affect neuropeptide production and body weight regulation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for managing PWS symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for obesity and behavioral issues in patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on the MAGEL2 gene in mouse models has shown promising results, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights into PWS.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jo, Young-Hwan — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Jo, Young-Hwan
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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.