Investigating how a protein called cofilin affects the structure and movement of neuron extensions.
Official title: Using cryo-electron tomography and live-cell fluorescent imaging to study the role of cofilin in regulating neuronal filopodial structure and dynamics
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11011447 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called cofilin helps nerve cells grow and recover, using special imaging tools to see how it affects the tiny structures that help these cells communicate, so we can better understand how to support brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $357,869 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126448-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011447 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions or injuries that affect neuronal growth and recovery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable neurological conditions that do not involve neuronal growth or recovery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of cofilin, a protein that interacts with actin filaments, in the development and recovery of neurons. By using advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron tomography and live-cell fluorescent imaging, the study aims to understand how cofilin influences the dynamics and structure of neuronal filopodia, which are essential for neuron signaling and connectivity. The research will involve examining the structural properties of actin filaments and how variations in cofilin levels affect neuronal behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into neuronal development and recovery, potentially informing treatments for neurological injuries and disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cytoskeletal proteins in neuronal behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swulius, Matthew — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Swulius, Matthew
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.