Investigating the causes and potential treatments for ALS in veterans
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Southern Arizona VA Health Care System · NIH-11101236 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how a specific protein called FUS affects ALS, a serious disease that weakens muscles, especially in veterans who are more likely to get it, with the hope of finding new treatments to help those living with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Arizona VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006316-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11101236 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans diagnosed with ALS or those at risk of developing the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a severe neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects motor neurons. Led by Dr. Haining Zhu, the project aims to explore the role of the RNA binding protein Fused in Sarcoma (FUS) in ALS pathology, which could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets. The research involves both basic science to uncover disease mechanisms and translational efforts to develop potential drug compounds. By studying ALS, particularly in veterans who are at higher risk, the research seeks to improve healthcare outcomes for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for ALS, significantly improving the quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding ALS mechanisms and developing targeted therapies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Arizona VA Health Care System
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Haining — Southern Arizona VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Haining
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.