Understanding the Genetics of ALS and FTD
Comprehensive Harmonization and Analysis of Case/Control Whole Genome Sequencing Data from the ALS/FTD Compute Project
This project brings together genetic information from many people with ALS and FTD to find new genetic causes for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10809793 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that ALS and FTD are serious brain conditions, and while some genetic causes have been found, many cases still don't have a clear genetic explanation. This project aims to combine and carefully organize whole genome sequencing data from a large number of individuals with ALS and FTD, as well as healthy controls, from across the United States. By looking at this vast amount of genetic information together, we hope to uncover new genetic factors, including rare changes and differences in non-coding regions, that contribute to these diseases. This work is crucial for better understanding why these conditions develop.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project uses existing genetic data from individuals previously diagnosed with ALS or FTD, as well as healthy controls.
Not a fit: Patients not diagnosed with ALS or FTD would not directly benefit from the findings of this specific genetic data analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new genetic causes for ALS and FTD, leading to a better understanding of these diseases and potentially new targets for treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While some genetic causes for ALS/FTD have been identified, this project's approach of harmonizing and analyzing such a large, comprehensive dataset of whole genome sequencing data is a novel and critical step to uncover the remaining unexplained genetic factors.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Landers, John E — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Landers, John E
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.