Creating new light-sensitive proteins to control nerve activity
Official title: Developing an Optogenetics Technology Based on Natural Potassium-selective Channelrhodopsins
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10731153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new light-based tools to help control nerve activity, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like nerve pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $3,145,118 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS133657-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10731153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from neuropathic pain or other conditions related to nerve circuit dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to nerve activity or those who do not experience neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced optogenetic tools that can precisely control the activity of neurons by using light. The team aims to create potassium-selective channelrhodopsins, which are proteins that can inhibit neuron activity when exposed to light. By enhancing the effectiveness of these tools, the research seeks to improve our understanding of neural circuits and their influence on behavior. Patients may benefit from this technology as it could lead to better treatments for conditions involving nerve dysfunction, such as neuropathic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for neuropathic pain and other nerve-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using optogenetic tools for controlling neural activity, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spudich, John Lee — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Spudich, John Lee
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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.