Understanding motor function and dysfunction in Rett syndrome
Official title: High dimensional motor coding and motor dysfunction in Rett syndrome
Funded at University of Arkansas at Fayetteville · NIH-10974881 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Rett syndrome affects the brain's ability to control movement, using animal models to understand the problem better, and it aims to find new ways to help those with the condition while also involving students in the research process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arkansas at Fayetteville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fayetteville, United States) |
| Project start | July 9, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $450,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS135396-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974881 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Rett syndrome, particularly those experiencing significant motor dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Rett syndrome who do not exhibit motor dysfunction or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's motor signals are disrupted in individuals with Rett syndrome, a neurological disorder that leads to severe cognitive and motor disabilities. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to uncover the neural mechanisms behind motor dysfunction, focusing on the role of neuron synchrony in limiting the complexity of motor signals. The project employs advanced mathematical frameworks to analyze these motor coding issues, which could lead to new insights into the condition. The research also emphasizes the involvement of undergraduate students in health-related research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of motor dysfunction in Rett syndrome, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using high-dimensional geometry to analyze motor coding is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding motor dysfunction in other neurological disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
Fayetteville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shew, Woodrow L. — University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
- Study coordinator: Shew, Woodrow L.
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Studying how deep brain stimulation helps Rett syndrome in mice
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Molecular Pathways Behind Rett Syndrome in Humans
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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.