How brain stem cells control their growth
Proliferative asymmetry in the neural stem cell lineage established by asymmetric cell division
This research explores how brain stem cells precisely manage their growth to build and repair the central nervous system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11335129 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special brain stem cells to build and repair the central nervous system. This project looks at how these cells divide unevenly, creating one new stem cell and one cell that becomes a neuron. This careful process helps make sure the right number of neurons are made and prevents too much growth, which could lead to problems like tumors. We want to understand the tiny molecular signals that guide this precise cell division.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future studies building on this work may seek individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or brain tumors.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to neural stem cell function or central nervous system development may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how brain stem cells control their growth could lead to new ways to treat conditions involving abnormal brain development or uncontrolled cell growth, such as certain brain tumors.
How similar studies have performed: The concept of asymmetric cell division in stem cells is well-established across many species, but the specific molecular details controlling proliferative asymmetry in neural stem cells are largely unknown.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lafoya, Bryce — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Lafoya, Bryce
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.