How NMDA brain receptors control nerve signaling
Structure and Function of Hetero-Multimeric Ligand-Gated Ion Channels
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY · NIH-11051823
Researchers are mapping the shapes and workings of NMDA receptors — brain proteins that help nerve cells communicate — to help find better treatments for Alzheimer's and other brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLD SPRING HARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11051823 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team grows NMDA receptor proteins in lab cells and uses high-resolution imaging and biochemical tests to see their three-dimensional shapes and how the channels open and close. They focus on mixed assemblies of different receptor subunits because those combinations behave differently across brain regions and disease states. By comparing normal and altered receptor forms, researchers aim to identify which parts malfunction in Alzheimer's and related conditions. This work uses cell-expression systems, purified proteins, and structural tools at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory rather than clinical testing on patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, or those at increased risk who want to support research or may be candidates for future clinical trials are the most relevant group.
Not a fit: Patients looking for immediate symptom relief or ready-to-enroll clinical treatments are unlikely to benefit directly from this lab-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could reveal precise receptor sites to target with safer, more effective drugs for Alzheimer's and other brain diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous structural studies of NMDA receptors have yielded important insights and drug leads, but detailed maps of mixed-subunit (hetero-multimeric) receptors remain an active and developing area.
Where this research is happening
COLD SPRING HARBOR, UNITED STATES
- COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY — COLD SPRING HARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FURUKAWA, HIROYASU — COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY
- Study coordinator: FURUKAWA, HIROYASU
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease