Investigating how neurotransmitters are processed at the blood-brain barrier
Endothelial monoamine neurotransmitter metabolism at the blood-brain barrier
This study is looking at how certain genes in the blood-brain barrier affect important brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which could help us understand and improve treatments for neurological diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891561 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the blood-brain barrier, which is crucial for protecting the brain and regulating the movement of substances between the blood and the central nervous system. The study aims to identify specific genes in the endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier that are involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. By exploring how these neurotransmitters affect brain function and health, the research seeks to uncover potential links to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to improve blood-brain barrier function and treat related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or other disorders affecting the blood-brain barrier.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to the blood-brain barrier or those without neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurological diseases by improving the function of the blood-brain barrier.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neurotransmitters in neurological diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munji, Roeben — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Munji, Roeben
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.