Understanding how a specific protein modification affects nerve cell health
Official title: Control of Axon Degeneration by Palmitoylation
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10997249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein change affects the health of nerve cells, which is important for people with neurological disorders, and it hopes to find new ways to help keep these cells healthy and prevent damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,104 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS135943-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from acute nerve injuries or chronic neuropathies and neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those whose axon degeneration is not related to the mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind axon degeneration, which is a critical issue in various neurological disorders. It focuses on the role of a protein modification called palmitoylation in the transport and degradation of axon survival factors, particularly a protein known as NMNAT2. By exploring how this modification influences the health of nerve cells, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could slow or prevent axon degeneration. Patients may benefit from new treatments developed from these insights into nerve cell biology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that slow or prevent nerve cell degeneration in various neurological conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein modifications related to nerve cell health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hesketh, Natasha Louise — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Hesketh, Natasha Louise
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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.