How proteins that change DNA structure affect brain cell communication and memory.
Official title: Investigating How Chromatin Remodeling Affects Endocytosis and Synaptic Organization
Funded at Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville · NIH-10438398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Kismet helps brain cells communicate by influencing the structure of connections between them, which is important for understanding conditions that affect brain development, and it also gives students a chance to get involved in research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edwardsville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $422,873 |
| NIH project number | 2R15NS101608-02A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10438398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or those interested in the genetic and molecular basis of memory and synaptic function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic function or chromatin remodeling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of chromatin remodeling proteins in regulating the structure and function of synapses, which are critical for communication between brain cells. By focusing on a specific protein called Kismet, the study aims to understand how it influences the localization of synaptic proteins and neurotransmission. The research will involve experiments to determine how Kismet interacts with other proteins to affect gene transcription related to synaptic organization. This work not only contributes to our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders but also provides hands-on research experience for students.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms underlying memory and learning, potentially informing treatments for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of chromatin remodeling in synaptic function, making this approach both relevant and promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville
Edwardsville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liebl, Faith L — Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville
- Study coordinator: Liebl, Faith L
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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.