How proteins help guide nerve connections in the developing brain

Regulation of axon guidance receptor trafficking in the developing mammalian central nervous system

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10900573

This study is looking at how brain cells connect with each other and how certain proteins help guide these connections, which could help us understand and improve treatments for people with neurological conditions caused by faulty nerve connections.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10900573 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which neurons form functional connections in the central nervous system, focusing on the role of specific proteins in guiding axons to their correct targets. By studying the trafficking of axon guidance receptors, the research aims to understand how these processes can be disrupted in developmental disorders. The approach involves using animal models to explore the interactions between proteins that regulate receptor behavior, which could lead to insights into nerve regeneration therapies. Patients may benefit from findings that could improve treatments for neurological conditions resulting from improper nerve connections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with developmental neurological disorders or conditions affecting nerve function.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed nervous systems and no neurological disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating developmental disorders of the nervous system and enhancing nerve regeneration.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding axon guidance mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.