How astrocytes influence the stability of brain connections in adults based on their experiences
Official title: Astrocyte experience-dependent regulation of synapse stability in the adult mouse visual cortex
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11001427 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells called astrocytes help keep the connections between nerve cells in the visual part of the brain healthy, especially when we see things, and it aims to understand how changes in these cells might relate to brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,695 |
| NIH project number | 1F99NS139511-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001427 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who may be experiencing neurological conditions that affect synaptic stability or plasticity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in maintaining the stability of synapses, which are the connections between neurons, in the adult visual cortex. The study focuses on how experiences, particularly visual stimuli, can affect the behavior of astrocytes and their ability to support synaptic health. By examining the changes in astrocyte activity and gene expression in response to visual input, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that govern synaptic plasticity in adults. This could provide insights into how alterations in these processes may contribute to neurological diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing brain plasticity and treating neurological conditions related to synaptic dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in synaptic plasticity, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Contreras, Minerva — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Contreras, Minerva
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.