Creating a sensor to measure GABA levels in the brain
Engineered GABA oxidase for GABA sensing in vivo
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10953239
This study is working on a new sensor that can track GABA levels in the brain in real-time, which could help people with conditions like Alzheimer's and autism by giving us better insights into how their brains are functioning.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10953239 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a specialized sensor that can measure levels of GABA, an important neurotransmitter, in real-time within the brain. The approach involves engineering a GABA oxidase enzyme that can produce a measurable signal when GABA is present, allowing for precise monitoring of its levels. This technology aims to address the current limitations in tracking GABA dynamics, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and autism, where GABA regulation is crucial. By implanting this sensor, researchers hope to gain insights into brain function and neurotransmitter balance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, autism, or epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients without neurological disorders or those not affected by GABA dysregulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of neurological conditions associated with GABA dysregulation.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using enzyme-based sensors is established, the specific application for GABA monitoring in vivo is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MONBOUQUETTE, HAROLD GEORGE — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: MONBOUQUETTE, HAROLD GEORGE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome