Investigating how Ahnak affects blood-brain barrier function and depression
Studies of Ahnak pathways in endothelial cells and blood-brain barrier regulation
['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10669565
This study is looking at a protein called Ahnak in blood vessels of the brain to see how it affects the blood-brain barrier and mental health, especially depression, which could help us understand more about what causes these conditions and how to treat them better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10669565 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Ahnak, a protein found in endothelial cells, in regulating the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and its impact on mental health, particularly depression. The study aims to understand how changes in Ahnak levels can influence BBB permeability and neuronal communication, which are crucial for maintaining brain health. By using specialized mouse models, researchers will examine the molecular pathways involved and how they relate to depressive behaviors. This could lead to new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing depression or related mental health disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with physical health conditions unrelated to mental health or the blood-brain barrier may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for depression by targeting the blood-brain barrier.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the blood-brain barrier in psychiatric conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KIM, YONG — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: KIM, YONG
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 below.
Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders