Understanding how astrocytes contribute to Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1
Official title: Astrocyte dysfunction in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1)
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11127776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes are affected by a gene mutation in people with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), to better understand how this might worsen the disease and find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $454,999 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134916-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of ataxia or neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to SCA1 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1), a neurodegenerative disease. The study aims to uncover how mutations in the Ataxin 1 gene affect astrocyte function and contribute to the disease's progression and symptoms. By using advanced techniques like single-nuclei RNA sequencing, researchers will explore the molecular mechanisms behind astrocyte dysfunction and its impact on neuronal health. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for SCA1.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve the quality of life for patients with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on astrocyte dysfunction in SCA1 is novel, similar research on astrocytes in other neurodegenerative diseases has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cvetanovic, Marija — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Cvetanovic, Marija
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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.