How DNA changes shape affects brain activity and learning
Official title: The impact of DNA supercoiling and topoisomerases on neuronal activity-dependent chromatin organization
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11141572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the way DNA is shaped in brain cells can change when we learn new things, and it hopes to find out how these changes might help us understand learning and memory better, which could be helpful for people with neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | July 19, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $465,032 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH135952-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141572 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that affect learning and memory, such as autism spectrum disorder or other cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to neurological function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in the structure of DNA, influenced by neuronal activity, can affect gene expression and learning behaviors. It focuses on the role of DNA supercoiling and topoisomerases in organizing chromatin, which is crucial for activating genes that support adaptive behaviors. By using advanced techniques to map DNA changes in mouse neurons, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these processes and how they relate to learning and memory. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the genetic basis of neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new understanding and treatments for neurological disorders related to learning and memory.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of mapping DNA supercoiling in neurons is novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding gene regulation and neurological function.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Madabhushi, Ram — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Madabhushi, Ram
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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.