How lipids moved at cell contact points help early neuron branch growth
The Role of Non-Vesicular Lipid Transport at ER-PM Contact Sites in Phosphoinositide Signaling in Early Dendrite Development
This project aims to learn how cells deliver key lipids to growing neurons so branches form correctly, which could matter for people with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11290826 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists at Stony Brook will study how neurons get rapid supplies of a lipid called PI(4,5)P2 at contact points between the endoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane during early dendrite growth. They will use lab-grown neurons, genetic manipulation, and live imaging to track lipid movement and signaling pathways such as PI3K/PIP3 and BDNF that guide branching. The team will test the role of non-vesicular lipid transport proteins at ER–PM contact sites and observe how changing those proteins alters dendrite architecture. From a patient's perspective, this work is aimed at explaining basic cellular steps that shape brain wiring linked to autistic disorder and could point to future treatment targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autistic disorder or their families who are willing to contribute biological samples or take part in future translational studies at Stony Brook would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate symptom relief or clinical treatments are unlikely to benefit directly because this is fundamental laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular steps that can be targeted to improve neuron branching in autism and guide future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have connected PI3K/PIP3 signaling and neurotrophins to dendrite growth, but the idea that non-vesicular lipid transport at ER–PM contact sites supplies lipids on demand is a newer, less-tested concept.
Where this research is happening
Stony Brook, United States
- State University New York Stony Brook — Stony Brook, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shelly, Maya — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Shelly, Maya
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.