Investigating the role of a specific protein in ALS
Protein Arginine Deiminase 2 (PAD2) and Protein Citrullination in ALS
This study is looking at how a protein called PAD2 and a process called citrullination might affect the nerve damage seen in ALS, with the goal of finding new ways to help people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11079644 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Protein Arginine Deiminase 2 (PAD2) and the process of protein citrullination in the progression of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The researchers aim to uncover how these mechanisms contribute to motor neuron degeneration, which is a hallmark of ALS. By studying the effects of PAD2 and citrullination on protein function and interactions within the central nervous system, the team hopes to identify new therapeutic targets. This collaborative effort combines expertise from two labs to explore previously uncharted areas in ALS research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Not a fit: Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases that do not involve ALS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that may slow down or halt the progression of ALS.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on PADs in other neurodegenerative diseases, this specific investigation into PAD2's role in ALS is novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Zuoshang — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Xu, Zuoshang
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.