Skip to content

Join the Summer Match Challenge! All donations will be matched by the Clementz-Peterson Family Fund and an anonymous donor through July 15th, up to $100K. DONATE



Mouse Models

Identifying FDA-approved molecules to treat SCA6

Written by Dr Hannah Shorrock Edited by Dr. Larissa Nitschke Pastor and colleagues identify FDA-approved small molecules that selectively reduce the toxic polyglutamine-expanded protein in SCA6. Selectively targeting disease-causing genes without disrupting cellular functions is essential for successful therapy development. In spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6), achieving this selectivity is Read More…

Snapshot: What is Gait Analysis in Ataxia Mouse Models?

A key role of the cerebellum is to control and fine-tune coordinated movement such as walking. Although walking is an unconscious behaviour, it is actually very complex and requires many systems to work together. The specific mannerisms and patterns of coordinated movement that make up how an individual walks are Read More…

El BDNF puede revertir la ataxia en ratones SCA1

Escrito por Anna Cook Editado por Dr. David Bushart. Publicado inicialmente en el 19 de Marzo de 2021. Traducción al español fueron hechas por FEDAES y Carlos Barba. El factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro -BDNF- puede prevenir la ataxia en ratones SCA1. Una nueva investigación muestra que el tratamiento funciona Read More…

Snapshot: What is the Morris Water Maze Test?

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are well known for worsening motor coordination symptoms caused by the degeneration of the cerebellum. Yet, increasing reports indicate that broader changes are occurring in the brains of some SCA patients. This includes changes in the hippocampus, a brain region critical for learning and memory. One way Read More…

Snapshot: What is the balance beam test?

When you think of a balance beam, you might think of gymnastics. For humans, a balance beam is a surface where we perform jumps, flips, and other athletic feats. Whether it’s a child taking their first class, or an Olympic athlete going for gold, the balance beam requires both balance Read More…

BDNF can reverse ataxia in SCA1 mice, even after symptom onset

Written by Anna Cook Edited by Dr. David Bushart Brain-derived neurotrophic factor can prevent ataxia in SCA1 mice. New research shows that the treatment works even if it’s started after mice develop signs of ataxia. SCA1 is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a mutation in the Ataxin1 gene. People with Read More…

Failure to repair DNA damage may be linked to SCA3

Written by Dr. Ambika Tewari Edited by Dr. Maria do Carmo Costa Mutations in Ataxin-3 protein prevent the normal functioning of a DNA repair enzyme leading to an accumulation of errors Cells are bombarded by thousands of DNA damaging events each day from internal and external sources. Internal sources include Read More…

A new molecule identified that controls cerebellar communication

Written by Dr. Ambika Tewari Edited by Dr. Sriram Jayabal Targeting phosphatases in the cerebellum can correct miscommunication in multiple models of ataxia. The cerebellum is essential for motor coordination and consists of the coordinated activity of different types of cells. Purkinje cells are one of the most fascinating cell Read More…

Translate »

Join the Ataxia community today!

Become a free member for exclusive content from NAF.