Investigating CALHM channels in the nervous system
Official title: Structural and functional studies of CALHM channels
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11220169 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain channels in our nervous system help with important functions like taste and hearing, and how problems with these channels might be linked to conditions like Alzheimer's and depression, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | October 25, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $199,729 |
| NIH project number | 7R01NS112363-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11220169 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, depression, or those experiencing taste and hearing impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurological conditions or those not affected by taste or hearing issues may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of CALHM channels in purinergic signaling within the nervous system, which is crucial for various functions such as taste, hearing, and neuroprotection. The study will explore how these channels facilitate the release of ATP and calcium, and how their dysregulation may contribute to neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease and depression. By conducting structural and functional studies, the research aims to identify potential pharmacological targets for treatment. Patients may benefit from insights gained about CALHM channels and their implications for neurological health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurological disorders associated with CALHM channel dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on CALHM channels is relatively novel, there is existing research on purinergic signaling that has shown promise in understanding neurological functions and disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Wei — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Lu, Wei
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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.