Investigating how auxiliary subunits affect glutamate receptors in the brain
Mechanism of functional modulation of glutamate receptors by their auxiliary subunits
This study is looking at how certain parts of brain receptors, which help with learning and memory, work together and affect their function, with the hope that this could lead to new treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10977034 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how auxiliary subunits of AMPA receptors, which are crucial for brain signaling, influence their function. By examining the structural and mechanistic aspects of these receptors, the study aims to uncover how different subunits can modulate receptor activity, impacting processes like learning and memory. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze receptor assemblies that are relevant to human physiology, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurological conditions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to enhance or restore synaptic function in diseases like Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting AMPA receptors for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nakagawa, Terunaga — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Nakagawa, Terunaga
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.