How neurons respond to stress and protect themselves from damage
Official title: Pro-Survival Responses to Neurocellular Stress
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11000854 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how brain cells respond to stress, like during a stroke, and focuses on a process that helps them adapt and survive tough situations, with the goal of finding ways to help these cells recover and keep working well after they've been damaged.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $433,371 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS132533-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000854 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those who have experienced a stroke.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to Alzheimer's or stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons react to stressful conditions, such as those experienced during a stroke. It focuses on a process called 'actinification,' where the structure of neurons changes to help them survive stress. By studying the molecular mechanisms behind this response, the researchers aim to understand how neurons can recover and maintain their function after experiencing damage. The study employs biochemical and cell biology techniques to explore these protective responses in detail.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for protecting neurons in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and stroke.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal stress responses, making this approach a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halpain, Shelley L — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Halpain, Shelley L
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.