Investigating how certain proteins can help treat ALS by reactivating motor neuron genes.
Official title: Effects of Re-expression of Motor Neuron Selector Transcription Factors on ALS Pathology
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11028190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging impacts motor neurons and their ability to deal with harmful proteins related to ALS, and it hopes to find new ways to help protect these neurons and improve survival for people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $645,391 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS140764-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11028190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage neurodegenerative diseases other than ALS may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how aging affects motor neurons and their ability to handle misfolded proteins, which are linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The researchers will re-express specific transcription factors in motor neurons from mouse models and human cells to see if this can improve neuron survival and reduce ALS-related damage. By examining changes in gene expression and cellular responses, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies for ALS. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to protect motor neurons from degeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance motor neuron survival and slow the progression of ALS.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of re-expressing embryonic transcription factors in adult neurons is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wichterle, Hynek — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Wichterle, Hynek
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.