How neurons move and recycle protein-filled vesicles in their branches
Organization and Function of Neuronal Endosomes
Researchers are examining how neurons move and clear protein-filled vesicles along their long branches, which could affect people with nerve disorders such as CMT2B.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The researchers use lab-grown neurons and molecular tools to follow short-lived receptor proteins (NSG1/2) as markers of degradation inside dendrites. They focus on the Rab7 protein and two partner proteins, RILP and Vps35, to see how endosomes are transported back to the cell body for breakdown. By mapping these steps, the team hopes to understand how neurons maintain protein balance far from the soma and why this might fail in some nerve diseases. Results could help identify molecular targets for future treatments of neuropathies linked to these pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic or clinical peripheral nerve disorders linked to Rab7 dysfunction, or those willing to donate tissue or cells for research, would be most relevant for this work.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated conditions or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular steps to target for therapies that protect neurons in certain peripheral nerve disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Prior cell biology studies support a role for Rab7 in endosome movement and links to neuropathy exist, but the detailed roles of RILP and Vps35 in dendritic degradation remain incompletely understood.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Winckler, Bettina R — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Winckler, Bettina R
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.