Understanding Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 5
Molecular and cellular mechanisms of spinocerebellar ataxia type 5
This research explores how changes in a specific gene lead to spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) and damage brain cells, aiming to find new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oakland University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11221203 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) is a brain disorder that causes problems with balance and movement, and currently has no cure. This condition happens because of changes in a gene that makes a protein called "beta-III-spectrin," which is crucial for healthy brain cell connections. We know that these gene changes cause the beta-III-spectrin protein to bind too tightly to another protein called actin, which then harms the development of important brain cells. Our goal is to uncover the exact steps of how this abnormal binding leads to cell damage and the symptoms of SCA5. By understanding these basic mechanisms, we hope to identify new targets for future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies or a cure for spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 by targeting the underlying molecular problems.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon previous findings by the same team, which identified key molecular changes in SCA5, but the current approach seeks to understand the precise mechanisms of disease.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Oakland University — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Avery, Adam — Oakland University
- Study coordinator: Avery, Adam
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.