How calcium channels influence the development of brain cells

Modulation of Oligodendrocyte Development by Voltage-Operated Calcium Channels

['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO · NIH-10991043

This study is looking at how certain calcium channels in brain cells help the growth of important cells that make myelin, which is essential for healthy brain function, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how these processes might improve brain cell connections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT BUFFALO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AMHERST, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10991043 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Cav1.2 voltage-gated calcium channels in the development of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), which are crucial for the formation of myelin in the brain. By using advanced imaging and electrophysiological techniques, the study aims to understand how these calcium channels affect the interaction between OPCs and neurons, potentially influencing brain cell connectivity. The researchers will explore whether increasing the activity of these channels can enhance the synaptic connections formed by OPCs and how this activity impacts the expression of genes related to their development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include adults with neurological conditions that involve oligodendrocyte dysfunction or myelin-related issues.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to oligodendrocyte development or those outside the age range of 21 years and older may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions affecting myelin formation and brain function.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of calcium channels in neuronal development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

AMHERST, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.