Investigating the effects of spermine synthase deficiency on brain health
Official title: Neurotoxicity of Spermine Synthase-deficiency and Polyamine Imbalance
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11192538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain chemicals in the body, called polyamines, can impact brain health in people with Snyder-Robinson Syndrome, a genetic condition, and it’s using fruit flies to find out if a new treatment can help reduce brain damage caused by this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 14, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $910,038 |
| NIH project number | 7RF1NS109640-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11192538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Snyder-Robinson Syndrome or those experiencing neurological issues related to polyamine metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any neurological disorders or those not affected by polyamine metabolism issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how imbalances in polyamines, specifically spermine and spermidine, affect neurological health. It focuses on a genetic condition known as Snyder-Robinson Syndrome, which is linked to spermine synthase deficiency. Using a fruit fly model, the researchers aim to understand the neurotoxic effects caused by this deficiency and have identified a potential treatment that may reduce neurotoxicity. The study will also investigate the relationship between polyamine metabolism and neurodegenerative processes, particularly those involving Tau proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurological disorders associated with polyamine imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of polyamines in neurological disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhai, Rong Grace — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zhai, Rong Grace
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.