Joe Viteri, PhD

2025 Next Generation Research Grant in ALS

Cellular senescence as a therapeutic target 

Institution: University of Missouri, Columbia

Project Summary:

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the death of motor neurons resulting in progressive muscle weakness. Support cells called glia are also affected. When the glia aren’t working properly, motor neurons get overexcited and die. 

The affected glial cells build up in the brain and spinal cord. The glia don’t die, but they do age and stop dividing. These are called senescent cells. Senescent glia release a collection of substances called the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), which may spread senescence to further cells and accelerate ALS progression.  

Senolytic drugs clear out this buildup of senescent glia. However, we don’t know exactly how these drugs work on a molecular or physiological level. Dr. Viteri hopes to find that senolytics improve motor neuron excitability by clearing glial SASP.   

This research is funded by The ALS Association and American Brain Foundation, in collaboration with the American Academy of Neurology.