Understanding how the body senses its position and movement

The electrical basis of proprioceptive signaling

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-11128536

This study is looking at how certain tiny channels in nerve cells help our bodies know where we are and how we're moving, especially in people with conditions like ALS or as we get older, and it hopes to find new ways to help those with spinal cord injuries and movement issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11128536 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind proprioception, which is the body's ability to sense its position and movement. It focuses on how specific sodium channels in sensory neurons contribute to this process, particularly in conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and aging. By using advanced genetic targeting techniques, the study aims to clarify how these channels affect proprioceptor function and motor behavior. The findings could lead to new insights into recovery strategies for spinal cord injuries and other movement disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, or age-related proprioceptive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to proprioceptive signaling or those without movement disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve treatment options for patients with movement disorders by enhancing our understanding of proprioception.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding proprioception and its implications for recovery from spinal cord injuries, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

DAVIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.