Understanding how TDP-43 affects muscle health in ALS
Official title: Mechanisms underlying TDP-43 dependent structural deficits in ALS muscles
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11116267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called TDP-43, which is connected to ALS, affects muscle weakness and wasting, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with ALS by testing on animals like mice and zebrafish.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $461,900 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG093032-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116267 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other unrelated neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of TDP-43, a protein linked to ALS, in muscle degeneration. It aims to understand how TDP-43 aggregates in muscle cells contribute to the weakness and atrophy seen in ALS patients. By studying animal models, including mice and zebrafish, the research will explore the mechanisms by which TDP-43 influences muscle formation and function. This could lead to new insights into the disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve muscle health and function in ALS patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding TDP-43's role in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zarnescu, Daniela C — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Zarnescu, Daniela C
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.