Targeting a specific protein to help treat motor neuron disease
Targeting the EphA4 in motor neuron disease: a structure-based approach
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE · NIH-11086636
This study is looking at a specific part of the body called the EphA4 receptor to find new treatments for ALS, a serious disease that affects movement, with the hope that these new therapies can help slow down or stop the disease for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11086636 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and targeting the EphA4 receptor, which is believed to play a significant role in the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a severe motor neuron disease. The study aims to develop and optimize new therapeutic agents that can effectively interact with this receptor, potentially leading to better treatment options for ALS patients. By using advanced techniques to analyze how these agents work in cellular and animal models, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind motor neuron death and identify effective pharmacological tools. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to novel therapies that slow down or halt the progression of ALS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), particularly those with specific genetic mutations related to the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of motor neuron diseases or those without a diagnosis of ALS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic options that significantly improve the quality of life for ALS patients.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting the EphA4 receptor is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using similar strategies to develop therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE — RIVERSIDE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PELLECCHIA, MAURIZIO — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE
- Study coordinator: PELLECCHIA, MAURIZIO
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, Animal Disease Models