Investigating a gene's role in blood vessel development in the brain and retina

Analyzing the Endothelial Cell-Expressed Prion Gene Prnd in Vascular Development

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10992137

This study is looking at how a gene called Prnd affects the growth and function of blood vessels in the brain and eyes, which could help us understand problems with blood vessels in diseases that affect the nervous system, especially as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992137 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific gene, Prnd, affects the development and function of blood vessels in the central nervous system, which includes the brain and retina. By examining how this gene influences endothelial cell behavior, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could lead to blood vessel dysfunction in various neurological diseases. The study employs biochemical techniques and advanced imaging to analyze the effects of Prnd on blood vessel formation and permeability. This work could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for age-related neurodegenerative conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing age-related neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for age-related neurodegenerative diseases by improving blood vessel health in the brain and retina.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in vascular development, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions age associated neurodegenerative diseaseage associated neurodegenerative disorderage dependent neurodegenerative diseaseage dependent neurodegenerative disorderage-driven neurodegenerative disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.