Investigating how RNA misregulation affects ALS through the KIF5A gene
Official title: RNA Processing Misregulation in KIF5A ALS
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11033842 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the KIF5A gene might affect the way our cells handle RNA, which could help us understand more about ALS and how it damages motor neurons.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $121,554 |
| NIH project number | 1K99NS140635-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033842 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 with known mutations in the KIF5A gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with ALS who do not have mutations in the KIF5A gene may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the KIF5A gene in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a severe neurodegenerative disease. It explores how mutations in KIF5A, a protein involved in transporting cellular components, lead to changes in RNA processing that may contribute to motor neuron degeneration. By using advanced machine learning techniques and experimental methods, the study aims to uncover the interactions between KIF5A and RNA, particularly in relation to genes associated with ALS. The research will also evaluate how these mutations affect the overall function of RNA-binding proteins and their targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into ALS mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding ALS through genetic and RNA-related studies, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Le, Phuong — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Le, Phuong
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.