Investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction affects nerve signaling
Official title: Synaptic defects caused by mitochondrial complex I dysfunction
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11053555 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, affect the way nerve cells communicate with each other, using fruit flies to see what happens when a specific part of these energy factories isn't working right, which could help us find new treatments for brain-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $343,267 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136753-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053555 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders not associated with mitochondrial issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, in the functioning of neurons and their connections, known as synapses. By using a model organism, the fruit fly, the researchers will explore how defects in a specific mitochondrial protein complex, Complex I, can lead to problems in nerve signaling and communication. The study aims to identify the specific ways in which mitochondrial dysfunction impacts different parts of the synapse, which could provide insights into various neurological conditions. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurological disorders caused by mitochondrial dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting mitochondrial function can lead to improvements in neurological conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Carl Andrew — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Frank, Carl Andrew
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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.