How proteins help brain cells develop and connect
F-BAR proteins in neuronal migration and process formation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11123311
This research explores how specific proteins guide the movement and connection-making of brain cells as they develop.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123311 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Neurons in the developing brain start as simple cells and need to move to their correct places and grow long extensions (axons and dendrites) to form circuits. This movement and growth depend on the cell's internal structure, particularly the actin cytoskeleton and the cell's outer membrane. We want to understand how special proteins called F-BAR proteins help coordinate these internal structures and the cell membrane. These F-BAR proteins are thought to be important for shaping the cell membrane, which is crucial for cells to extend and move. By learning more about these proteins, we hope to better understand how healthy brain development occurs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies building on this work might seek individuals with developmental brain conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions will not find them through this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these fundamental processes could help us learn more about developmental brain disorders that affect how brain cells move and connect.
How similar studies have performed: While the general role of the cytoskeleton in neuronal development is known, the specific coordination by F-BAR proteins in this context is an area needing more detailed exploration.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DENT, ERIK W — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: DENT, ERIK W
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.