How astrocytes affect Rett syndrome
Official title: Contribution of astrocytes to Rett syndrome
Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10953453 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes might affect Rett syndrome, and it hopes to find ways to fix protein changes in these cells that could help improve symptoms for people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $522,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139073-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10953453 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Rett syndrome or those with related neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to astrocyte dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder. It focuses on how changes in the proteins released by astrocytes can impact neuronal development and behavior. Using mouse models, the study aims to identify specific proteins that, when corrected, could improve symptoms associated with Rett syndrome. The approach includes analyzing protein secretion patterns and restoring normal function to see if it alleviates the disorder's effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve outcomes for individuals with Rett syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting astrocyte dysfunction in other neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.
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.