Investigating the loss of Purkinje cells in the brain and its effects on movement disorders.
Adult-onset Purkinje cell loss in cerebellar dysfunction
This study is looking at how the loss of certain brain cells affects movement and can lead to problems like shaky hands or trouble with coordination, using mice to help us learn more about these issues and improve our understanding of conditions like ataxia and dystonia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10903742 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the loss of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum affects motor coordination and contributes to disorders like ataxia, tremor, and dystonia. Using a genetic mouse model, the study aims to pinpoint the timing and effects of Purkinje cell death on motor behavior. By examining specific regions of the cerebellum, researchers hope to clarify how these changes lead to progressive motor dysfunction. This work addresses current limitations in human imaging and postmortem studies, providing insights that could enhance our understanding of these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing symptoms of ataxia, tremor, or dystonia.
Not a fit: Patients with movement disorders not related to cerebellar dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients suffering from movement disorders linked to cerebellar dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cerebellar degeneration and its impact on motor function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Donofrio, Sarah — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Donofrio, Sarah
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.