Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation
In 2006, the Foundation was created and funded the first research to be undertaken since the identification of the Ataxia gene in 2000. It was crucial to begin research in order to discover a treatment for Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS).
Since its creation, the Foundation has funded several research projects related to this neurological disorder. The Foundation is a charitable organization and is supported entirely by private donations and volunteers who support the cause.
Research Objectives
The main research objective of the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation is to develop a treatment for ARSACS. Every year the Foundation financed several research projects in Canada and abroad. The efforts of the Foundation are concentrated currently in three main research areas:
Financing of several promising research projects with reearchers that are experts in this field.
Forming partnerships with other organizations and pharmaceutical companies to further the understanding of this disease and conduct independent research.
Conducting clinical trials
Scientific Advisory Board
All applications for research grants are evaluated by the Scientific Advisory Board of the Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation according to specific criteria.
Research Grants
To further encourage and accelerate the development of a treatment for ARSACS, the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation provides grants and opportunities to researchers.
This year, the call for proposals of the Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation is jointly supported by the “Richardson Research Fund” to fund ARSACS research projects.
As part of this funding offer, the Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation in collaboration with the “Richardson Research Fund” offers up to a maximum of $100,000 CAD per project and up to $25,000 CAD per project to support start-up initiatives (Seed Grant).
Both types of grants are awarded for a 12-month period, with the possibility of renewal. For more information and to apply : ARSACS Call for Proposals and Application Form.
ARSACS Research Projects
2026-2027
The Foundation extends its gratitude to the Richardson Trust Fund and the Action for ARSACS Foundation (USA) for their financial support and valued partnership in advancing jointly funded ARSACS research projects.
Investigating Ferroptosis as a Therapeutic Target in ARSACS – Dr. Currais
This project investigates ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death associated with oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, as a potential disease mechanism and therapeutic target in ARSACS.
Identifying Genetic Modifiers That May Influence ARSACS Symptoms – Dr. Girard
This project investigates genetic modifiers that may help explain differences in symptoms among people living with ARSACS.
Targeting Cav2.1 to Restore Purkinje Cell Function in ARSACS – Dr. Maltecca
This project investigates whether targeting Cav2.1 calcium channels can restore normal Purkinje cell activity and improve disease-related abnormalities in ARSACS models.
“Developing conditional mouse models and new approaches to treating ARSACS” – Dr. Strack
The Sacs knock-out (KO) mouse is a faithful model of ARSACS, displaying ataxia, muscle weakness, cerebellar degeneration, and, as we have recently shown, learning and memory deficits. With this proposal, we seek to pharmacologically rescue motor- and cognitive…
Unveiling the Role of Microglia in ARSACS – Dr. Damiani
This project investigates whether microglia, the immune cells of the brain, contribute directly to ARSACS progression and explores strategies to reduce harmful inflammation and protect neurons.
Exploring Oligodendrocyte Dysfunction and S100B Signaling in ARSACS – Dr. Herrera
This project investigates the role of oligodendrocyte dysfunction and S100B signaling in ARSACS.
Restoring Purkinje Cell Activity Through Ion Channel and mGluR1 Modulation – Dr. McKinney
This project investigates whether modulation of a sodium channel subunit and mGluR1 can restore Purkinje cell function and slow ataxia in ARSACS.
Using Prime Editing to Correct the Genetic Mutation Responsible for ARSACS – Dr. Tremblay
This project explores Prime Editing as a way to directly correct the genetic mutation responsible for ARSACS.
Understanding Early Synaptic and Neuroinflammatory Changes in ARSACS – Dr. Watt
This project investigates early synaptic and neuroinflammatory changes that may contribute to Purkinje cell degeneration in ARSACS.
Investigating Nuclear–Cytoskeletal Alterations in ARSACS – Dr. Morani & Dr. Carollo
This project investigates how disruption of nuclear–cytoskeletal interactions and the LINC complex may contribute to ARSACS pathogenesis.
Advancing a Nanoparticle-Based Gene Replacement Therapy for ARSACS – Drs. Gentil & Durham
This project aims to advance a nanoparticle-based gene replacement therapy designed to restore sacsin function in ARSACS.