Investigating how brain hyperactivity affects the progression of frontotemporal dementia and ALS in mice
Understanding the relationship between cortical hyperexcitability and the progression of FTD/ALS pathology and behavioral deficits in mice
This study is looking at how frontotemporal dementia and ALS affect the brain by observing mice, and it aims to find out if calming down overactive brain activity can help slow down the disease and improve behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10948230 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and its relationship with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by studying brain activity in mice. The researchers will monitor neuronal activity and its connection to behavioral changes and neuronal loss in a specific genetic model of FTD. They will also explore whether reducing excessive brain activity can slow down the progression of the disease and improve behavioral outcomes. Advanced techniques such as multiphoton microscopy and optogenetics will be utilized to gather detailed insights into these processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to frontotemporal dementia or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly those with the C9orf72 gene mutation.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to FTD or ALS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that slow the progression of frontotemporal dementia and ALS, improving quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neuronal activity in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Algamal, Moustafa — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Algamal, Moustafa
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 below.