Investigating how a protein affects cell death and recycling in ALS
Official title: Novel role of mitochondrial carrier protein PSAP in regulation of both apoptosis and autophagy in ALS
Funded at University of Texas of the Permian Basin · NIH-11118953 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PSAP affects cell death and recycling in ALS, using mice to see how not having this protein impacts movement and lifespan, with the hope of finding new treatments for people with ALS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas of the Permian Basin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Odessa, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $457,769 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134931-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11118953 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly those who are experiencing early to moderate symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced ALS or those with other neurodegenerative disorders unrelated to ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, PSAP, in the processes of cell death (apoptosis) and recycling of cellular components (autophagy) in the context of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Using a mouse model of ALS, researchers will explore how the absence of PSAP influences motor function and lifespan, as well as its effects on critical cellular processes. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind these effects, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for ALS patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve motor function and extend the lives of patients with ALS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting cellular processes like apoptosis and autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Odessa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Xuemin — University of Texas of the Permian Basin
- Study coordinator: Xu, Xuemin
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.