How certain proteins help form connections in the brain
Official title: Kinetochore Protein Functions in Synaptogenesis
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10911387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our brain cells help form connections between neurons, which is important for learning and memory, and it could help us understand more about diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $600,864 |
| NIH project number | 5R37NS109211-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of kinetochore proteins in the development of synaptic connections in the brain. By studying mutations in these proteins, the researchers aim to understand how they influence the transformation of growth cones into stable synapses and affect the structure of sensory dendrites. The study utilizes both Drosophila models and cultured mammalian neurons to explore these mechanisms, focusing on the potential post-mitotic functions of kinetochore proteins in neuronal development. This could provide insights into the underlying processes of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of kinetochore proteins in synaptic development is novel, similar research has shown that targeting cellular mechanisms can lead to breakthroughs in understanding neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwarz, Thomas L. — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Schwarz, Thomas L.
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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.