Understanding Nerve Damage in Diseases like ALS and Diabetic Neuropathy
Dissection of SARM1-Induced Axon Degeneration and Cell Death
This research explores how a specific protein called SARM1 causes nerve damage in conditions like ALS and diabetic neuropathy, hoping to find new ways to protect nerves.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166684 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our nerves can sometimes undergo a process of self-destruction, similar to how cells die, which is called axon degeneration. This project looks closely at a key protein, SARM1, that acts as the main trigger for this nerve damage. We are learning how SARM1 becomes active and causes the depletion of an important energy molecule, leading to nerve breakdown. By understanding both rapid and slower, chronic SARM1 activity, we hope to uncover new ways to keep nerves healthy. We are using special tools to track SARM1 activity and its effects on nerve integrity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with neurodegenerative conditions like ALS, CMT2A, or diabetic neuropathy, where nerve damage is a key problem, could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions do not involve SARM1-related nerve degeneration may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that protect nerves from damage in various neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work has established SARM1's role in nerve degeneration, and this project builds upon those foundational discoveries to explore more complex mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Milbrandt, Jeffrey D — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Milbrandt, Jeffrey D
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.