How inhibitory signaling is organized in the hippocampus
Architecture of inhibitory G protein signaling in the hippocampus
This work looks at how proteins control calming nerve signals in the brain's memory center, which could help people with conditions caused by abnormal brain inhibition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11332781 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will map how GABAB receptors, G proteins, and adaptor proteins assemble in hippocampal neurons to send inhibitory signals to different targets. They will use genetic manipulation in model systems and molecular and electrical recordings to see how removing or changing specific proteins alters signaling. The team will search for distinct 'signalosome' complexes that route inhibition either to potassium channels or to enzymes like adenylyl cyclase. Understanding these assemblies may explain how disruptions lead to memory, mood, or seizure problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurological conditions involving hippocampal dysfunction—for example epilepsy, certain memory disorders, or mood disorders linked to inhibitory signaling—may be most likely to benefit from downstream therapies informed by this work.
Not a fit: Patients with medical problems unrelated to brain inhibitory signaling, such as purely peripheral or non-neurological diseases, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new molecular targets for therapies to restore proper inhibitory signaling in disorders such as epilepsy, anxiety, or memory impairment.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies have shown that changing RGS proteins alters GABABR-GIRK signaling and related behaviors, but detailed mapping of the proposed inhibitory 'signalosomes' is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wickman, Kevin D — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Wickman, Kevin D
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.