How brain support cells help connect nerves (astrocyte matrisome and synapses)
Official title: Relationship of the Human Astrocyte Matrisome with Synaptic Networks
Funded at Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NIH-11384626 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant studies how human brain support cells called astrocytes influence the connections between brain cells through a complex network of extracellular proteins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 23, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $453,064 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129788-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11384626 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This research is in early, basic science using human-derived cells; direct patient participation is not required at this stage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain diseases may not directly benefit until translational steps are taken.
What this research studies
Researchers will use bioengineered human neural organoids that include astrocytes and neurons derived from stem cells to study how astrocyte-produced extracellular proteins affect the formation and strengthening of synapses. They will test whether a mature, multi-component matrisome from astrocytes accelerates synapse development and function, using a human-cell–based organoid platform. The work builds on preliminary data and focuses on identifying key matrisome components that drive neuron–astrocyte communication. Findings could illuminate human-specific mechanisms of synaptic connectivity and disease-relevant brain network changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to support healthy brain connectivity in diseases that disrupt synapses.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary organoid-based approaches have shown promise in modeling human neural networks and astrocyte interactions.
Where this research is happening
-
Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krencik, Robert Conrad — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Krencik, Robert Conrad
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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.