Name:
Institution:
Type:
PI
Grant Award Details
A treatment for Rett syndrome using glial-restricted neural progenitor cells
Grant Type:
Grant Number:
DISC2-13515
Project Objective:
- To develop an allogeneic, PSC-derived glial-restricted progenitor cell therapy (GRNPCs) for treating Rett syndrome
Investigator:
Disease Focus:
Autism
Neurological Disorders
Human Stem Cell Use:
iPS Cell
Award Value:
$1,402,240
Status:
Active
Grant Application Details
Application Title:
- A treatment for Rett syndrome using glial-restricted neural progenitor cells
Public Abstract:
Research Objective
We developed a novel glial-restricted neural progenitor cells transplantation strategy as a treatment for Rett syndrome, reverting neuronal alterations caused by genetic mutations.
Impact
There are no disease-modifying therapies for Rett syndrome. Our therapeutic, if successful, will be a first-in-class treatment for this devastating neurological disorder and potentially others.
Major Proposed Activities
- Characterization of the candidate glial-restricted progenitor stem cells production.
- In vitro studies of the cell transplantation in Rett syndrome brain organoids to assess the ability of the cells to revert neuronal alterations at molecular, cellular and circuit levels.
- In vivo efficacy studies upon cell transplantation in the brains of a mice model for Rett syndrome to measure the cellular, physiological, behavioral and survival impact of the treatment.
- Prepare and organize the next steps using large animals to assess immunogenicity, cytotoxicity and off-target effects before moving into clinical trials.
Statement of Benefit to California:
Brain disorders are responsible for more years lost to disability than any other medical condition. Rett syndrome is one of these conditions, affecting Californians independently of race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Our therapeutic strategy can be applied to several other neurological conditions, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease, but also autism spectrum disorders, affecting 1 in every 54 births worldwide, expanding the benefits of the development of this approach.
