How RNA controls different brain cell types and their activity
RNA Regulatory Networks in Neuronal Cell Type Diversity and Function
This project looks at how RNA changes create different brain cell types and may help people with brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251190 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research looks at how alternative RNA splicing and RNA-binding proteins create the many different neurons in the brain. The team studies gene expression using single-cell and bulk approaches and runs laboratory experiments to map splicing patterns and regulatory networks across neuron types. They work with lab models and human-relevant tissues to connect splicing changes to neuronal function and genes like ANK3. The aim is to tie specific RNA programs to brain disorders so future diagnostics or treatments can target these mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurological or psychiatric conditions linked to brain-cell dysfunction, or individuals willing to provide tissue or participate in sample-collection efforts, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment or those with conditions unrelated to brain-cell RNA regulation are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal molecular targets or biomarkers for neurological and psychiatric disorders that lead to better diagnosis or new treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has established brain-specific splicing programs and roles for regulators such as Rbfox, but applying these findings to particular neuron types and disease connections is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Chaolin — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Chaolin
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.