Investigating the effects of DUX4 protein in muscle tissue related to a genetic disorder.
To explore the molecular and cellular effects of transient DUX4 expression in skeletal muscle
This study is looking at how a protein called DUX4 affects muscle cells in people with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) and how it might change their ability to heal after injury, using a special mouse model to learn more about the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888231 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a genetic disorder affecting muscle function. It aims to understand how transient expression of the DUX4 protein impacts muscle cells and their ability to recover from injury. Using a specialized mouse model, researchers will explore the long-term changes in muscle tissue and cellular behavior caused by DUX4. The study will involve examining muscle biopsies and analyzing gene expression to uncover the underlying mechanisms of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, particularly those experiencing muscle weakness or related symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding DUX4's role in muscle pathology, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bosnakovski, Darko — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Bosnakovski, Darko
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 below.