Investigating how lipids affect early brain cell development.
Official title: The Role of Non-Vesicular Lipid Transport at ER-PM Contact Sites in Phosphoinositide Signaling in Early Dendrite Development
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11073699 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in our bodies help brain cells grow and connect with each other, which is really important for healthy brain development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $644,008 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS137605-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073699 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders unrelated to lipid signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific lipids in the development of neurons, particularly how they influence the growth and branching of dendrites, which are essential for communication between brain cells. The study examines the mechanisms by which lipids are transported and utilized at contact sites between the endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane, ensuring that neurons receive the necessary signals for proper development. By exploring these processes, the research aims to uncover new insights into the cellular functions that are critical during early brain development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for conditions like autism spectrum disorder by targeting lipid signaling pathways.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of investigating non-vesicular lipid transport is relatively novel, previous studies have shown that lipid signaling plays a crucial role in neuronal development.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shelly, Maya — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Shelly, Maya
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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.