Targeting the sphingosine-1-phosphate system to treat ALS

Sphingosine-1-phosphate system as a therapeutic target for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

NIH-funded research VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-10911026

This study is looking at how certain fats in the body and the immune system might affect the progression of ALS, a serious disease that causes muscle weakness, and it hopes to find new treatment options that could help slow down the disease for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10911026 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the sphingosine-1-phosphate system in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a severe neurological disease that leads to muscle weakness and paralysis. The study focuses on understanding how lipid metabolism and immune system dysfunction contribute to the progression of ALS. By exploring the interactions between motor neurons and surrounding non-neuronal cells, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could slow down or halt disease progression. Patients may be involved in trials assessing new treatments derived from these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at various stages of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders or those who do not have a diagnosis of ALS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life and extend survival for ALS patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting lipid metabolism and immune responses in ALS, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer's disease model
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.