Using human stem cells to study communication between nerves and muscles in neuromuscular diseases.
Official title: Human-iPSC derived neuromuscular junctions as a model for neuromuscular diseases.
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10727888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how special stem cells can help us create models of the connections between nerves and muscles, which are important for movement, to better understand diseases like ALS and find new ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 8, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $390,007 |
| NIH project number | 1R61NS133212-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with neuromuscular diseases, particularly those with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuromuscular diseases that are not related to motor neuron degeneration may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be used to create models of neuromuscular junctions, which are critical for muscle contraction. By focusing on the complex interactions between motor neurons and muscles, the research aims to better understand the mechanisms behind neuromuscular diseases like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The approach involves developing functional models that replicate the communication pathways affected in these diseases, which could lead to more effective treatments. Patients may benefit from insights gained through these models that could inform future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for neuromuscular diseases, offering hope to patients suffering from conditions like ALS.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been successful studies using iPSC models in other areas, this specific approach to studying neuromuscular junctions in the context of ALS is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miranda, Helen C — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Miranda, Helen C
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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.