How brain cells in zebrafish help remove unnecessary neurons during development
Official title: Radial Astroglia Form Novel Structures to Engulf Neuronal Cell Bodies during Zebrafish Optic Tectum Development
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10995912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special brain cells called astroglia help shape the visual part of a zebrafish's brain by cleaning up dead cells, and the findings could help us understand brain development and diseases in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,145 |
| NIH project number | 1F31EY035961-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995912 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or conditions affecting brain cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed brains or those not affected by neurodevelopmental issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astroglia, a type of brain cell, in the development of the zebrafish optic tectum, which is crucial for visual processing. By using advanced imaging techniques, researchers will observe how these astroglia extend projections to engulf dying neurons and other cellular debris during the formation of neural networks. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind this process and how it contributes to healthy brain development. Patients may benefit from insights gained about similar processes in human brain development and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and lead to new strategies for treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding the role of glial cells in brain development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barber, Heather M — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Barber, Heather M
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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.