Investigating how mitochondrial damage affects neurodegenerative diseases in children

The Mitochondrion-STING Axis in An Early Childhood Onset Neurodegenerative Disease

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10923986

This study is looking at how problems with tiny energy factories in cells, called mitochondria, might contribute to a brain disease in children caused by changes in the NGLY1 gene, and it aims to find new ways to help treat this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-10923986 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of mitochondria in a specific neurodegenerative disease that affects children due to mutations in the NGLY1 gene. The study uses a mouse model to explore how damaged mitochondria activate immune responses that may lead to neurological decline. Researchers will investigate the specific cell types involved and the signaling pathways that are disrupted, as well as potential therapies targeting these mechanisms. The goal is to uncover the underlying causes of this disease and identify new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with NGLY1 deficiency or related early-onset neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not linked to mitochondrial dysfunction or NGLY1 mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for early childhood neurodegenerative diseases, improving outcomes for affected children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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 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.