NIH-funded research R01 grant

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-11268808 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how brain cells respond to stress, like during a stroke, and how a process called 'actinification' helps them survive and stay healthy, so we can learn ways to better protect these cells from damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project startDecember 15, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$18,126
NIH project number3R01NS132533-02S1
Project IDNIH-11268808 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 stress responses in neurons 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 under stress. By studying the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to understand how these changes can protect neurons from damage and maintain their function. The approach includes 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: Other 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

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.