Investigating how jellyfish develop and regenerate their nervous system
A New Animal Model to Examine Nervous System Function Development and Regeneration
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11059239
This study looks at a special jellyfish to learn how its nervous system grows and heals, which could help us understand more about nerve development and healing in humans.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11059239 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on a unique jellyfish species, Clytia hemisphaerica, to explore the mechanisms of nervous system development and regeneration. By using advanced imaging techniques, researchers can observe and manipulate the activity of every neuron in the jellyfish's nervous system in real-time. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of how neurons differentiate, migrate, and function as the jellyfish grows and regenerates. The insights gained could inform broader applications in neuroscience and regenerative medicine.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with conditions affecting nerve regeneration or those interested in advancements in neuroscience.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to nervous system function or regeneration may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding nervous system regeneration, potentially benefiting patients with nerve injuries or neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has successfully utilized model organisms like jellyfish to uncover fundamental biological principles, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEISSBOURD, BRANDON — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: WEISSBOURD, BRANDON
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.