METTL3 controls motor neuron function in dementing diseases
Official title: METTL3-mediated regulation of motor neuron function
Funded at Hunter College · NIH-11387757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how a cellular protein called METTL3 affects motor neurons and could influence dementing conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hunter College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $361,188 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084965-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11387757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with dementia-related neurodegenerative conditions, including those with Alzheimer's disease spectrum disorders, could potentially benefit from forthcoming therapeutic strategies informed by this research.
✕Less likely to help
This basic science project may not yield immediate treatments or direct clinical care changes for patients in the near term.
What this research studies
This project explores how RNA regulation by METTL3 impacts the behavior and health of motor neurons, which may be linked to dementing disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. By examining how m6A RNA marks influence TDP-43 and its distribution in neurons, the study aims to identify potential pathways for new therapies. Findings could point toward strategies to protect neurons and slow progression in dementias where motor neuron function is affected.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new targets for drugs that support neuron health in dementing diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work linking RNA regulation and neurodegenerative disease has shown promise, but the exact role of m6A and METTL3 in human dementias remains an area of active investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Hunter College
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lotti, Francesco — Hunter College
- Study coordinator: Lotti, Francesco
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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.