How noggin affects brain growth and behavior
Official title: Regulation of Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Behavior by Noggin
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11042157 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a protein called noggin helps grow new brain cells in a part of the brain that affects memory and learning, and it explores how things like exercise and antidepressants might boost noggin levels to improve thinking and mood.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $526,771 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128053-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042157 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be adults experiencing cognitive decline or mood disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to hippocampal function may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the protein noggin influences the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus and its impact on behavior, particularly cognitive functions. By studying adult mice, the researchers aim to understand how environmental factors like exercise can enhance noggin levels, potentially leading to improved cognitive performance and neurogenesis. The study explores the relationship between noggin, BMP signaling, and the effects of antidepressants on brain health and behavior. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to enhance cognitive function and treat mood disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cognitive impairments and mood disorders by targeting noggin and BMP signaling pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that enhancing neurogenesis through similar mechanisms can lead to improved cognitive and emotional outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kessler, John a — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Kessler, John a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
High-intensity exercise as a treatment for Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at whether doing high-intensity endurance exercise can help people who have just been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease feel better and slow down their symptoms, especially since current medications don't always do the trick.
-
Software to quickly assess organ dose after radionuclide exposure
This study is creating a helpful software tool that quickly calculates how much radiation your organs absorb after you've taken certain radioactive substances, so you can get better care and treatment based on your individual needs.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for better ways to improve your care and treatment, so you can get more personalized options that work best for you.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for new ways to improve care and treatment for patients, and if you join, you might help test some exciting new methods that could lead to better health for everyone.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for ways to improve care and treatment for patients like you, by trying out new methods that could help manage your health better.
-
Investigating core biological processes
This study is all about exploring important biological processes that affect our health, and it invites patients to help discover new ways to improve care for everyone.
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.