Fabp7 Silencing as a Strategy to Treat Mutant GFAP-induced Neuroinflammation in Alexander’s Disease

Awarded in 2024
Updated Sep 29, 2025

At a Glance

Alexander disease (AxD) is a rare devastating neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the GFAP gene, leading to toxic protein buildup in astrocytes, severe inflammation and progressive neurological decline. There are no current treatments. This project investigates the role of fatty acid binding protein 7 (FABP7), which is abnormally elevated in AxD and may drive harmful astrocyte-mediated inflammation. Using an innovative viral approach to silence FABP7 in a mouse model of AxD, the study will test whether reducing FABP7 expression can lower inflammation, decrease disese pathology and improve outcomes.