How brain support cells (glia) shape nerve‑cell connections during development and aging
Investigating novel mechanisms that underlie glial-mediated synapse elimination in development and aging
This project explores how support cells in the brain called glia decide which nerve‑cell connections stay or are removed, which could affect autism and age‑related memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11134760 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use genetic screens in fruit flies and follow‑up lab experiments to find molecules in glia that control synapse removal or maintenance. They are focusing on an immune receptor called Crq that came up in the screen to learn how it helps glia prune connections during development and later in life. The team will test how these mechanisms change with aging and whether similar proteins function in mammals. Results will guide future studies that may link these basic discoveries to human brain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism and older adults with memory concerns are the populations most directly relevant to this research and could be candidates for future related studies or sample donations.
Not a fit: Because this is fundamental, lab‑based research using model organisms, it does not provide immediate clinical treatments or direct benefits to participants now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets to prevent harmful synapse loss and inspire treatments for autism‑related wiring differences and age‑related memory decline.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have established that glia help prune synapses and that modifying similar pathways can change outcomes in animal models, but the specific role of the Crq receptor is a newer, less tested finding.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jay, Taylor Reagan — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Jay, Taylor Reagan
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.