Targeting specific mutations in the NEFL gene to treat Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Allele-specific inactivation for dominant negative NEFL Mutations

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10874573

This study is testing a new gene editing method to help people with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2E by specifically targeting and turning off the harmful mutations in a gene, with the hope of finding a treatment for this condition that currently has no good options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10874573 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a precise gene editing technique to target and inactivate specific mutations in the NEFL gene that cause Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2E (CMT2E). By utilizing advanced CRISPR technology, the researchers aim to selectively edit the mutant allele while preserving the healthy version of the gene. This approach could potentially provide a therapeutic option for patients suffering from this debilitating condition, which currently has no effective treatments. The study will validate this gene editing platform using CMT2E as a model, addressing the challenges of targeting dominant mutations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2E caused by mutations in the NEFL gene.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease not linked to NEFL mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment for patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease by effectively targeting and inactivating harmful gene mutations.

How similar studies have performed: While gene editing for dominant mutations is a novel approach, there have been successful applications of CRISPR technology in other genetic disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.