This research aims to develop a novel motor unit number estimation (MUNE) technique that integrates two recent advances in electrophysiology, i.e. compound muscle action potential (CMAP) scan and high-density surface electromyography (HDEMG), to provide accurate and reliable estimation of functioning motor units in the muscle. The proposed technique will be used as a sensitive biomarker for quantifying or tracking motor unit population in clinical settings or to explore axon excitability and muscle rearrangements in response to medication, exercises or physical therapies in aging, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurological disorders.

Public Health Relevance

The proposed study aims to develop a novel motor unit number estimation (MUNE) technique with improved accuracy and sensitivity for measuring motoneuron degeneration in aging, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neurological disorders.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21NS113716-01A1
Application #
9977726
Study Section
Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Sciences Study Section (MRS)
Program Officer
Chen, Daofen
Project Start
2020-04-15
Project End
2021-09-30
Budget Start
2020-04-15
Budget End
2021-09-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2020
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Texas Health Science Center Houston
Department
Physical Medicine & Rehab
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
800771594
City
Houston
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
77030