Understanding nerve damage in hereditary spastic paraplegia

Mechanisms Underlying Axonopathy in Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11061852

This study is looking into how genetic changes cause nerve damage in hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), which affects balance and muscle strength, with the hope of finding new treatments to help people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061852 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind nerve damage in hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), a condition that leads to balance issues, muscle weakness, and potentially paralysis. By using animal models and induced pluripotent stem cells, the team aims to uncover how genetic mutations contribute to neurodegeneration. They employ advanced techniques like CRISPR for genome editing to create models that mimic the disease, allowing for a detailed study of disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. The ultimate goal is to identify new treatments that could improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hereditary spastic paraplegia or those exhibiting symptoms related to this condition.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders unrelated to hereditary spastic paraplegia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding similar neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Conditions Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.