Enhancing brain flexibility by targeting specific proteins
Official title: Targeted Degradation of Extracellular Proteins to Enhance Brain Plasticity
Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10916890 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changing certain proteins in the brain can help it adapt and heal better, which could be really helpful for people who want to improve their learning or recover from injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 12, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,330,000 |
| NIH project number | 1DP1NS142487-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916890 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how manipulating proteins in the brain's extracellular space can improve brain plasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt and repair itself. The study focuses on the role of proteins secreted by astrocytes, a type of glial cell, in maintaining synaptic stability and preventing beneficial remodeling. By transiently removing these proteins, the research aims to enhance the brain's ability to remodel synapses, which could lead to improved learning and recovery from injuries. Patients may be involved in trials that explore these new approaches to enhance brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and recovery in patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing brain plasticity through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Nicola J — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Allen, Nicola J
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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.