Understanding cognitive decline in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1

Etiology of cognitive decline in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10878829

This study is looking at how a protein linked to Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 affects thinking and memory in the brain, using mice to help us understand the problem better and find new ways to help people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10878829 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the causes of cognitive decline in patients with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), a neurodegenerative disease. The team is exploring how the abnormal ataxin-1 protein affects brain function, particularly focusing on the cerebellum and its connections to other brain regions. By studying transgenic mice, they aim to identify the specific brain areas involved in cognitive deficits and how these changes progress over time. This research could lead to a better understanding of the disease and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 who are experiencing cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of ataxia or cognitive decline not related to SCA1 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for cognitive decline in SCA1 patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on cognitive decline in SCA1 is relatively novel, similar research in other neurodegenerative diseases has shown promising results.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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 Cerebellar DiseasesCerebellar DisordersCerebellar Syndromes
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.