Investigating how GABAA receptors fold and misfold in the brain
Official title: Understanding GABAA receptor protein folding and misfolding
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11161454 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain changes in brain receptors can cause problems for people with epilepsy, with the goal of finding new ways to help those who don't respond well to current treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $526,383 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS105789-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161454 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic forms of epilepsy linked to GABAA receptor dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with epilepsy not associated with GABAA receptor mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the misfolding of GABAA receptors, which are crucial for controlling brain activity. It aims to identify how genetic variations in these receptors lead to their dysfunction, particularly in patients with epilepsy. By studying the processes that cause these receptors to misfold and degrade, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to restore their function and improve treatment outcomes for patients resistant to current anti-seizure medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for epilepsy patients who do not respond to existing medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in correcting the function of misfolded GABAA receptors, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mu, Tingwei — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Mu, Tingwei
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.