Home Department: Biology
Mentor: Helen Blau (Microbiology & Immunology)

“15-PGDH Inhibition Improves Muscular Function in a Murine Model of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)”

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disease that affects motor neuron function and muscle strength, leading to severe muscle atrophy. Currently, there are no effective treatments for the muscle degeneration associated with SMA. However, the Blau lab has discovered that inhibiting the enzyme 15-PGDH with a small molecule called SW can improve muscle mass and strength in aged mice. Ari aims to investigate whether the same approach can improve muscle function in a mouse model of SMA. This interdisciplinary project may provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of SMA and potential therapeutic interventions.