The identification of the HD gene led to the development of many animal models that have helped us to better understand the biology of Huntington’s disease. However, in the hunt for effective therapies, the most relevant observations arise from studying human bodies, brains, and cells. In 2013, HDSA launched the Human Biology Project, to help fund projects that focus on research in people. Researchers from graduate students to professors can apply for up to $75,000 a year for 2 years. Their work is evaluated and selected by HDSA’s Scientific Advisory Board, made up of expert HD scientists, neurologists, and family members. This year’s applications are now open, and researchers can submit a letter of intent until May 22nd, 2018.
March Research Webinar Available on HDSA’s YouTube Channel
At HDSA, we keep up to date on emerging techniques and scientific stories in the HD field. We dive into the newest publications and talk to the scientists doing the work, then invite them to share their research at our monthly webinars. This week Dr. Edith Pfister from the University of Massachusetts joined us to talk about how sheep can help us develop huntingtin-lowering therapies. Her talk was fun and easy to understand and she left lots of time to answer audience questions. Check it out on HDSA’s youtube channel.
Participants Needed for a Research Study in Bloomington, Indiana
Do you live in the Indianapolis, Cincinatti, or Louisville areas? Consider participating in a study by an HDSA-supported researcher in Bloomington, Indiana. Alan Phipps at the University of Indiana Bloomington is examining the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation on movement in adults (18-80) in the early or middle stage of Huntington’s disease. It involves three experimental sessions of 30 minutes each involving treadmill walking and a weak electric current delivered through electrodes on your head. For participating you will receive a gift card valued at $50 for each experimental session completed, and travel reimbursement check for up to 500 miles (paid after the final session). Testing will take place in the Kinesiology Department at Indiana University Bloomington. If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact the Neuromuscular Control Lab at 812-855-3714 or reach out to Alan Phipps at almphipp@indiana.edu.
