How myelin affects brain circuits and movement
The role of myelination in cortical circuit function and motor behavior
Researchers are looking at whether losing and regaining myelin in the brain's cortex changes nerve cell activity and movement in people with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11269153 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how losing and regaining myelin in the brain's cortex affects single nerve cells, circuits, and movement, with a focus on multiple sclerosis. Researchers use advanced imaging and electrophysiology, including high-resolution microscopy, in lab models to follow individual neurons over time during demyelination and remyelination. They also test whether skilled motor training that raises neuronal activity helps oligodendrocyte regeneration and recovery of normal circuit function. The aim is to link cellular and circuit changes to measurable motor behavior to inform future treatments or rehabilitation approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with multiple sclerosis who have motor symptoms or who are willing to contribute clinical data, samples, or join related studies at the research site would be the best candidates.
Not a fit: People without multiple sclerosis or those whose motor problems stem from long-standing, irreversible damage are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new ways to protect or restore myelin and improve movement and rehabilitation for people with MS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies and patient imaging have shown cortical hyperexcitability after demyelination and that activity-based interventions can support remyelination, but therapeutic translation to humans remains limited.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Welle, Cristin G — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Welle, Cristin G
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.