Using mitochondrial transfer to treat motor neuron degeneration in SBMA
Official title: Mitochondrial Transfer to Treat SBMA Motor Neurons
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10985401 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) by using special cells to deliver healthy mitochondria to the damaged nerve cells, with the hope of improving their health and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $459,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135044-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985401 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) who are experiencing motor neuron degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of motor neuron diseases or those without mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of mitochondrial transfer as a potential treatment for spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), a condition characterized by motor neuron degeneration. The approach involves developing human neural stem cell models to isolate extracellular vesicles that contain mitochondria, which are then transferred to affected motor neurons. By examining how these transferred mitochondria affect the health and function of the motor neurons, the research aims to establish a new therapeutic strategy for SBMA and similar neurodegenerative disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve motor neuron health and function in patients with SBMA.
How similar studies have gone: While mitochondrial transfer is a novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Xia — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Feng, Xia
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.