Federal Grant Award Summary

Baylor College of Medicine received a $124,106 Project Grant award dated April 1, 2026, from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) under the Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders program (CFDA 93.853). The two-year research project, scheduled for completion by March 31, 2028, investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological manifestations in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1), a progressive neuromuscular disorder affecting approximately 1 in 8,500 individuals. The research leverages a novel transgenic mouse model (CUG960) that expresses expanded cytosine-uracil-guanine (CUG) repeats in the central nervous system to replicate key DM1 neurological features, including cognitive impairment, behavioral abnormalities, and reduced brain weight.

The project deliverables include scientific research outputs designed to elucidate whether DM1 neurological pathology results primarily from dysregulation of alternative splicing or from additional Muscleblind-Like (MBNL) protein-dependent processes such as RNA localization and stability. The research employs the doxycycline-repressible CUG960 model to enable temporal control of repeat expression for rescue studies, advancing understanding of DM1-related neurological dysfunction and potentially informing therapeutic development strategies for affected patients.