RNA–protein droplets and their role in ALS and frontotemporal dementia
Dynamic RNA-Protein Assemblies and Neurological Disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL · NIH-11322701
Researchers aim to understand whether abnormal RNA–protein assemblies cause or worsen nerve cell damage in people with ALS, frontotemporal dementia, and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11322701 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies tiny structures inside cells called RNA–protein condensates (including stress granules) that help control how RNA works. Scientists will use genetic data, biophysical experiments, and cellular models to see how disease-linked mutations change these assemblies and how those changes harm nerve cells. The team will build on prior gene discoveries to map molecular steps from condensate dysfunction to neurodegeneration. Over several years they will test different mechanisms to find points where therapies might intervene.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with ALS or frontotemporal dementia, and individuals who carry known genetic mutations tied to these conditions, would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People without neurodegenerative disease or those seeking immediate treatment are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this primarily laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new molecular targets and strategies to slow or prevent nerve cell loss in ALS and frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies from this lab and others have revealed genes and molecular links between condensates and neurodegeneration, but turning those discoveries into effective therapies remains early-stage.
Where this research is happening
MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES
- ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL — MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TAYLOR, JOSEPH PAUL — ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: TAYLOR, JOSEPH PAUL
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.
Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease, Degenerative Neurologic Disorders, Disease, Disorder