Investigating the effects of antisense oligonucleotides on spinal muscular atrophy treatment

Transcriptome-Wide Effect of Therapeutic Antisense Oligonucleotides for the Treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

['FUNDING_R03'] · IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11078218

This study is looking at a new way to help people with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) by testing special treatments that could improve how a key gene works, with the hope of finding better therapies to make life easier for SMA patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R03']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorIOWA STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AMES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078218 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a genetic condition that leads to severe muscle weakness and is a leading cause of infant mortality. The study aims to explore the use of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to prevent the skipping of a crucial part of the SMN2 gene, which is essential for producing the SMN protein. By understanding how different chemical modifications of ASOs affect their performance, the research seeks to improve existing therapies and potentially develop new treatment options for SMA patients. Patients may benefit from insights into more effective therapies that could enhance their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and children diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, particularly those who have not responded adequately to current therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with forms of spinal muscular atrophy that are not amenable to treatment with antisense oligonucleotides may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for spinal muscular atrophy, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with antisense oligonucleotide therapies for spinal muscular atrophy, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

AMES, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.