Investigating a molecule's role in brain signaling and information processing
Official title: Synaptotagmin 7: A compartmentalized molecule for presynaptic short term plasticity
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11066274 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a molecule called synaptotagmin 7 affects communication between brain cells during short bursts of activity, using special mice that don’t have this molecule in certain brain areas, to help us understand how the brain balances excitement and calmness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,187 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH136704-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066274 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting brain signaling or cognitive function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic plasticity or brain signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific molecule, synaptotagmin 7, influences the way brain cells communicate during short bursts of activity. By using a special mouse model that lacks this molecule in certain brain regions, researchers aim to uncover how it affects the balance between excitation and inhibition in the brain's circuitry. The study will involve observing the behavior of brain cells in response to different stimuli to determine the role of synaptotagmin 7 in synaptic connections. This could provide insights into the fundamental mechanisms of brain function and information processing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological disorders related to synaptic dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barraza, Matthew — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Barraza, Matthew
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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.