How genes affect brain changes based on experiences throughout life
Official title: Genetic and molecular regulation of experience-dependent structural plasticity
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11002676 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our brain connections change as we grow and age, using tiny worms to find out which genes and processes are involved, with the hope of learning more about brain disorders that affect people at different stages of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $356,673 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129736-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002676 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals experiencing age-related cognitive decline or neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's connections change in response to experiences during different life stages, including development and aging. Using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, the study aims to identify specific genes and molecular mechanisms that regulate these changes. By examining the effects of age on neuronal circuits and behaviors, the research seeks to uncover insights into the underlying causes of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. The approach combines genetic screening with behavioral assays to provide a comprehensive understanding of structural plasticity in the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating age-related cognitive decline and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding structural plasticity in simpler model organisms, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hart, Michael P — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hart, Michael P
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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.