Understanding how lipid imbalances affect brain cell development in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Official title: Elucidating the contribution of lipid dysregulation to impaired oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination in Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11063535 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with fats in the body affect the growth of important brain cells called oligodendrocytes, which help protect nerve fibers, in people with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), to find new ways to help these cells work better and slow down the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,593 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS137623-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063535 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 or those with genetic predispositions to this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of ataxia or neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to oligodendrocyte dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lipid dysregulation in the maturation of oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for myelination in the brain, specifically in the context of Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3). The study utilizes animal models to explore how mutations in the ATXN3 gene lead to deficits in oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination. By analyzing RNA sequencing data, the researchers aim to uncover the biochemical pathways affected by lipid imbalances and how these may contribute to the disease's progression. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could restore normal oligodendrocyte function and improve myelination.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain cell development and myelination in patients with Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using antisense oligonucleotide therapies to address similar oligodendrocyte maturation issues in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Putka, Alexandra Faith — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Putka, Alexandra Faith
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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.