Understanding immune system changes in ALS and frontotemporal dementia
Official title: Investigating Dysfunction of Neuroimmune-Related Processes in Models of ALS/FTD TDP-43
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11137476 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with the immune system might make conditions like ALS and frontotemporal dementia worse, using mice to see how brain injuries affect these diseases and a specific protein called TDP-43, which could help us find new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $251,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139100-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137476 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with ALS or FTD, particularly those with a history of traumatic brain injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases not related to ALS or FTD may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how immune system dysfunction contributes to the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). By using a mouse model that mimics these diseases, researchers will analyze the effects of traumatic brain injury on neurological health and immune responses. The study focuses on the role of a specific protein, TDP-43, which is implicated in these neurodegenerative conditions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the immune mechanisms involved in ALS and FTD, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with ALS and FTD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting immune dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to meaningful advancements, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bosco, Daryl Angela — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Bosco, Daryl Angela
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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.