Understanding how MBNL loss affects smooth muscle in myotonic dystrophy type 1
Official title: MBNL loss of function in visceral smooth muscle as a model of myotonic dystrophy type 1
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10975935 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how myotonic dystrophy type 1 affects the digestive system, especially problems like trouble swallowing and constipation, by exploring what happens when a specific protein is not working properly in the muscles of the gut, using mice to help understand these issues better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | December 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $51,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK132935-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975935 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with myotonic dystrophy type 1 who experience gastrointestinal disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without myotonic dystrophy type 1 or those not experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind gastrointestinal disturbances in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), a condition that affects multiple systems in the body. By studying the loss of MBNL function in visceral smooth muscle, the research aims to uncover how this loss contributes to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and constipation. The approach involves using mouse models to analyze the effects of MBNL loss on smooth muscle activity and RNA processing. The findings could provide insights into the underlying causes of GI issues in DM1 patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of myotonic dystrophy, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peterson, Janel Ann Merkel — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Peterson, Janel Ann Merkel
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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.