How the body's internal clock affects the blood-brain barrier and inflammation
Circadian rhythm regulation of blood-brain barrier transport and inflammation
This study is looking at how our body's natural daily rhythms affect the blood-brain barrier, which helps keep our brain safe while letting in important nutrients, to find better ways to deliver treatments for brain-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10995337 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the body's circadian rhythms influence the function of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which is crucial for protecting the brain from harmful substances while allowing necessary nutrients to pass through. By using a human BBB model, the study aims to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate the BBB's transport functions throughout the day. The researchers will explore how inflammation from the body interacts with the BBB's circadian rhythms, potentially affecting drug delivery to the brain. This work could lead to new strategies for improving treatments for neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that require targeted drug therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the blood-brain barrier or circadian rhythms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of neurological treatments by improving drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the biological mechanisms of the blood-brain barrier can lead to significant advancements in drug delivery, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Shirley — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Shirley
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.