Investigating nerve degeneration in dogs to understand human nerve diseases

Establishing the neuropathologic and molecular features of a spontaneous canine model of peripheral neuropathy

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11070900

This study is looking at a nerve condition that affects both dogs and people, focusing on Labrador Retrievers with a specific type of nerve problem, to learn more about it and potentially help find better treatments for everyone affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11070900 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on hereditary peripheral neuropathies (HPNs), which cause nerve degeneration in both dogs and humans. By studying Labrador Retrievers with late-onset peripheral neuropathy, researchers aim to uncover the neuropathologic and molecular features of this condition. The study will involve examining the structure of the neuromuscular junction and peripheral nerves in affected dogs, which may provide insights applicable to human HPNs. The findings could help establish a canine model that can be used for future research and potential treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include dogs, particularly Labrador Retrievers, that exhibit symptoms of late-onset peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not dogs or do not have hereditary peripheral neuropathies may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of peripheral neuropathies and pave the way for developing effective treatments for both dogs and humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized canine models to study human diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
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.