Investigating how a protein affects nerve cell communication and memory.
Official title: Wrd promotes active zone stability through dephosphorylation of Coracle
Funded at Lsu Health Sciences Center · NIH-10811227 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Wrd helps keep brain connections strong, which is important for learning and memory, using fruit flies to learn more about these processes that could help people with memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $412,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS131829-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811227 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with cognitive impairments or those interested in the biological mechanisms of learning and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cognitive function or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a protein called Wrd in stabilizing active zones, which are crucial for the release of neurotransmitters in the brain. By studying the dephosphorylation of another protein, Coracle, the research aims to understand how these processes influence learning and memory. The study uses a model organism, Drosophila (fruit flies), to investigate the molecular mechanisms that regulate synaptic development and function. Patients may benefit from insights into cognitive impairments linked to these processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for addressing cognitive impairments and enhancing memory function.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding synaptic mechanisms and their impact on cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Lsu Health Sciences Center
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Chunlai — Lsu Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Wu, Chunlai
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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.