Investigating how brain immune cells interact with synapses during development and disease
Defining the interactions between microglia and synapses in brain development and disease
This study is looking at how brain immune cells called microglia help build connections between brain cells, which is important for healthy brain function, and it uses zebrafish to see how these cells might be involved in conditions like epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883641 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of microglia, the immune cells in the brain, in the development of synapses, which are crucial for normal brain function. Using a zebrafish model, the study aims to observe how microglia interact with synapses in real-time and how these interactions may contribute to conditions like epilepsy. The research will involve advanced techniques such as live imaging and gene deletion to explore the effects of microglial activity on synaptic health and neuronal excitability. By examining these processes, the research seeks to uncover new insights into brain development and potential therapeutic targets for related disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related neurological conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders not related to synaptic dysfunction or those over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological disorders associated with synaptic dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microglial functions in other models, but this specific approach using zebrafish is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Silva, Nicholas Jeremy — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Silva, Nicholas Jeremy
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.