Understanding a rare genetic disorder that affects children's metabolism.
Official title: Characterizing the natural history of sphingosine phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome (SPLIS): a fundamental step in the development of a targeted cure for this novel atypical sphingolipidosis
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11193732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into a rare condition called sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome (SPLIS) in children, aiming to understand how it affects their health and explore new treatments like gene therapy and vitamin B6 to help improve their lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,947 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HD113778-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11193732 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other metabolic disorders unrelated to SPLIS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase insufficiency syndrome (SPLIS), a rare and severe metabolic disorder in children. The study aims to characterize the natural history of SPLIS, which can lead to kidney failure and other serious health issues. Researchers will investigate the genetic causes and potential treatments, including gene therapy and vitamin B6 supplementation, to improve outcomes for affected children. By developing biomarkers and understanding the disease better, the research seeks to pave the way for targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments or even a cure for children suffering from SPLIS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing gene therapies for similar metabolic disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saba, Julie D — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Saba, Julie D
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.