Investigating how brain support cells reshape neural connections
How do astrocytes remodel the nervous system?
This study is looking at how special brain cells called astrocytes help shape and fine-tune connections between nerve cells during development, which could help us understand more about conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10829261 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of astrocytes, a type of glial cell, in remodeling neuronal circuits in the brain. By using the Drosophila larval nervous system as a model, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that astrocytes use to prune unnecessary neuronal connections during development. The approach includes advanced genetic screening techniques to identify specific genes and pathways involved in this process. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how these mechanisms relate to conditions like autism spectrum disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to astrocytic function or those outside the age range of 21+ years may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the biological processes underlying autism and other neurological conditions, potentially informing future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding glial cell functions in neuronal remodeling, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kang, Yunsik — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Kang, Yunsik
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.