Understanding how Matrin-3 contributes to protein misfolding in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Delineating the role of Matrin-3 in driving aberrant liquid-liquid phase separation that underpins ALS/FTD
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10758550 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Matrin-3 might be involved in the way certain proteins misfold in diseases like frontotemporal dementia and ALS, with the hope of finding new RNA-based treatments to help people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $233,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080393-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10758550 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to FTD or ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Matrin-3 in the misfolding of proteins associated with neurodegenerative disorders like frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The approach focuses on how Matrin-3 interacts with RNA-binding proteins and contributes to liquid-liquid phase separation, a process that can lead to protein aggregation. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights that could inform the development of RNA-based therapies for these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and FTD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein misfolding and aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jackrel, Meredith E. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Jackrel, Meredith E.
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.