Investigating how a specific potassium channel affects nerve signal transmission
Official title: Determining the role of the mechano-activated potassium channel TRAAK at nodes of Ranvier
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-10915430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific channel in our nerves, called the TRAAK potassium channel, works when our nerves are under pressure, which could help us find better treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32EY035182-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from conditions affecting nerve signal transmission, such as multiple sclerosis or Guillain-Barré syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not experiencing issues with nerve signal transmission may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the TRAAK potassium channel at nodes of Ranvier, which are crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. By exploring how mechanical forces influence the activity of this channel, the study aims to uncover new insights into the mechanisms of action potential propagation. The researchers will employ advanced techniques from organic chemistry, molecular biophysics, and neurophysiology to investigate how TRAAK currents contribute to the speed and reliability of nerve signals. This could lead to improved treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that enhance nerve signal transmission in patients with various neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of ion channels in nerve signaling, but this specific approach to mechanical activation of TRAAK is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
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University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elleman, Anna Virginia — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Elleman, Anna Virginia
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.