How astrocytes (brain support cells) grow and work
Molecular pathways regulating astrocyte morphogenesis and function
This project looks at how astrocytes — the brain's support cells — make their complex shapes and how that could matter for people with autism or Alexander disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11378884 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are using laboratory models, including genetic work in fruit flies, to find genes that control how astrocytes develop their branching shapes and reach synapses. They identified a gene called Tre1 that helps astrocytes form their complex processes and are studying how losing this gene changes brain wiring and behavior in models. The team will connect these basic discoveries to human conditions linked to astrocyte defects, such as Alexander disease and autism, to point toward possible molecular targets. While the work is done in the lab, the goal is to guide future therapies that restore healthy astrocyte function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alexander disease, autism spectrum disorder, or related neurological conditions would be most likely to benefit from future clinical work that builds on these findings.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatments or those with brain conditions unrelated to astrocyte dysfunction are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic laboratory research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal new molecular targets to restore or improve astrocyte function and ultimately help treat symptoms in disorders like Alexander disease and some forms of autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies in animal models have identified genes that shape astrocytes, but translating these findings into human treatments remains largely untested and exploratory.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Monk, Kelly R — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Monk, Kelly R
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.