Investigating how neurosteroids and cholesterol interact with brain proteins
Official title: Neurosteroid and Cholesterol Binding to Integral Membrane Proteins
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11089549 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain natural substances in the brain, like neurosteroids and cholesterol, connect to important proteins that help control brain activity, which could help us understand and improve treatments for conditions like depression and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $552,219 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149287-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089549 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from neurological disorders such as depression, anxiety, or those requiring anesthetic interventions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neurosteroid or GABAA receptor function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how neurosteroids and cholesterol bind to integral membrane proteins, particularly the GABAA receptors, which play a crucial role in regulating neuronal excitability. By using advanced techniques like photolabeling and mass spectrometry, the researchers aim to identify specific binding sites and their functional significance. This could lead to insights into how these interactions affect brain function and could inform the development of new therapeutic agents for conditions like depression and anxiety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new treatments for neurological conditions, enhancing the effectiveness of anesthetics and antidepressants.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neurosteroid interactions with GABAA receptors, indicating potential for significant advancements in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evers, Alex S. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Evers, Alex S.
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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.