Exploring how stress responses in Aplysia can inform neuroprotection strategies for stroke.

NIH Aplysia Renewal Year 29 - 33

NIH-funded research University of Miami Rosenteil School · NIH-11128058

This study looks at how a sea slug called Aplysia reacts to low oxygen levels and how these reactions might influence memory and stress, with the goal of finding clues that could help treat brain diseases and strokes in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami Rosenteil School NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Key Biscayne, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128058 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how Aplysia, a type of sea slug, responds to low oxygen conditions and how these responses can affect memory and stress resilience. The project focuses on understanding the molecular changes, particularly through DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs, that occur in Aplysia when exposed to hypoxia. By studying these mechanisms, researchers aim to identify potential epigenetic markers that could help in developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and stroke. The findings could provide insights into how stress responses can be inherited across generations in these organisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research would be individuals at risk for stroke or those with neurodegenerative disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neurodegeneration or stroke may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for neuroprotection in humans, particularly for conditions like stroke.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using Aplysia as a model for understanding neuroprotection and stress responses, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Key Biscayne, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Degenerative Neurologic Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.