SPG4
Patient-Derived Stem Cell Models
The Qiang Lab at Drexel University is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of SPG4 through innovative research and state-of-the-art technology. The lab utilizes patient-derived stem cell-based models to investigate the disease and develop potential therapies. Skin fibroblasts are obtained from SPG4 patients through routine biopsy procedures, which are then expanded and cryopreserved in their cutting-edge laboratory. Using cellular reprogramming technology, patient cells are converted into functional neurons, which allows research to be conducted at the cellular level. Having relevant cell types from the patients allows researchers to gain unparalleled insights into the disease's mechanisms.
Project Details
Benefits of Patient-Derived Stem Cell Models
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Less invasive and safer for patients because cells do not need to be extracted directly from the brain.
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Allows the research team to perform preclinical studies with patients directly involved.
Funding Needed
The Qiang Lab aims to establish a small bank of stem cells with embryonic stem cell-like qualities, which can be used for a wide range of applications, including cell therapies. Please consider donating to support research costs. The more funding received, the greater sample size that can be used to collect more significant and meaningful data used for potential therapies.
How You Can Participate
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Donate a skin fibroblast biopsy to help research teams probe disease-specific phenotypes and pathologies.
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Fibroblasts from patients of all ages with an SPG4 diagnosis, as well as unaffected parents and/or siblings, are needed.
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Cure SPG4 Foundation has established a centralized biobank for SPG4 through the NIGMS Human Genetic Cell Repository at Coriell. Cell banking services are provided at no cost to you.
Research Team
The Qiang Lab is committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of SPG4 through innovative research and state-of-the-art technology.
