Investigating how a protein affects R-loop metabolism and neurodegeneration.

The functions of the zinc finger protein ZPR1 in R-loop metabolism and neurodegeneration.

NIH-funded research University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-10762448

This study is looking at a protein called ZPR1 to see how it helps manage R-loops, which can cause DNA damage and are connected to diseases like ALS and SMA, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10762448 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the zinc finger protein ZPR1 and its role in managing R-loops, which are structures formed during the transcription of DNA into RNA. Accumulation of R-loops can lead to DNA damage and is linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The study aims to understand how ZPR1 interacts with other proteins involved in R-loop resolution and how its deficiency can lead to neurodegeneration. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for these debilitating conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS or SMA.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with R-loop metabolism may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by targeting R-loop metabolism.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting R-loop metabolism for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron DiseaseAran-Duchenne disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.