How GluA4 and NPTX2 work together to tune connections between brain cells
Structure-guided functional analysis of GluA4-NPTX2 interaction during PVIN homeostatic scaling
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11195262
Researchers will use high-resolution imaging to reveal how two proteins that control excitatory signals in the brain interact, which could inform care for conditions like schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11195262 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will use cryo-electron microscopy to take high-resolution pictures of AMPA receptors and the NPTX2 protein to see how they fit together. They will focus on GluA4-containing receptors in interneurons and how NPTX2 binding changes receptor clustering and synaptic strength. The team will link structural images to experiments in brain cells to show how these physical interactions produce functional changes at synapses. This work aims to provide a detailed map of molecular interactions that could guide future efforts to rebalance excitatory signaling in psychiatric and neurological disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is lab-based, structural research and does not enroll or treat patients directly.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new ways to restore balanced brain circuits and inspire therapies for conditions such as schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Cryo-EM has resolved structures of related neurotransmitter receptors, but using it to capture AMPAR plasticity and NPTX2-driven scaling is a novel application.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HALE, WILLIAM DYLAN — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: HALE, WILLIAM DYLAN
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 below.