NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

Understanding how the Huntingtin protein helps repair DNA in neurons

Official title: Dissecting Key Interactions of the HTT Transcription Coupled Repair Complex

Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-10863628 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called Huntingtin helps fix DNA damage in brain cells, which could lead to new treatments for people with Huntington's Disease by understanding how different genes affect the disease's start and progression.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$76,756
NIH project number1F32NS136263-01
Project IDNIH-10863628 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Huntington's Disease, particularly those with varying ages of onset and genetic backgrounds.

Less likely to help

Patients with other neurological disorders not related to Huntington's Disease may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the Huntingtin protein in repairing DNA damage in neurons, particularly in the context of Huntington's Disease (HD). The study aims to identify new therapeutic targets by examining how genetic variants of DNA repair proteins influence the onset of HD. By focusing on the transcription coupled non-homologous end joining (TC-NHEJ) complex, which includes Huntingtin and other DNA repair proteins, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could slow disease progression and improve symptoms for patients. The approach involves detailed biochemical assays and genetic analyses to understand these interactions better.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that slow down the progression of Huntington's Disease and improve the quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting DNA repair mechanisms in other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California-Irvine
    Irvine, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Pendlebury, Devon — University of California-Irvine
  • Study coordinator: Pendlebury, Devon

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.