Understanding how telomeres affect muscle stem cells in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Molecular mechanisms of telomere function in muscle stem cells
This study is looking at how the shortening of telomeres affects muscle stem cells in people with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and aims to find new ways to help these cells regenerate muscle tissue, potentially reducing the need for long-term steroid treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10765619 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of telomeres in muscle stem cells, particularly in the context of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). The study will explore how telomere shortening impacts the function of these stem cells and their ability to regenerate muscle tissue. Researchers will examine the cellular consequences of telomere shortening in muscle stem cells from both mice and DMD patients, as well as the interaction between telomeres and specific proteins involved in muscle degeneration. The goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could reduce reliance on long-term corticosteroid treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, particularly children and young adults.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or those without any muscle degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve muscle regeneration in patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of telomeres in muscle regeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mourkioti, Foteini — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Mourkioti, Foteini
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 below.