Understanding how increased brain activity affects ALS progression
Official title: Mechanistic insights of cortical hyperexcitability in ALS
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10727465 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how overactive brain cells might contribute to ALS, especially in the early stages when people notice muscle twitching, and it aims to find new ways to help ALS patients by understanding these changes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $430,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS133960-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727465 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage ALS or those experiencing early symptoms such as muscle fasciculations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced-stage ALS or those with other neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of hyperexcitability in the motor cortex as a potential driver of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). By utilizing advanced viral tools for cell-specific targeting, the study aims to explore the molecular and cellular pathways involved in ALS, particularly focusing on the early signs of the disease such as muscle twitching. The approach includes innovative techniques like chemogenetics to manipulate neural activity and assess its impact on motor neuron health. The goal is to identify critical factors that could lead to more effective early interventions for ALS patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that slow down or prevent the progression of ALS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding motor neuron diseases through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Jie — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Jie
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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.