Investigating how signals stabilize nerve connections over time
How discrete homeostatic signals stabilize synapse function across time
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-10878799
This study is looking at how certain signals help keep nerve cell connections strong in fruit flies, which could help us understand problems with these connections in people with neurological disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10878799 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain signals help maintain stable connections between nerve cells, using a model organism called Drosophila melanogaster, or fruit fly. The researchers will explore various genetic and biochemical methods to identify the processes involved in stabilizing these connections, particularly during a phenomenon known as presynaptic homeostatic potentiation (PHP). By combining techniques like imaging and electrophysiology, the study aims to uncover the sequence of events that occur when these stabilizing signals are activated. This knowledge could provide insights into neurological disorders where synapse stability is compromised.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders characterized by synaptic instability.
Not a fit: Patients with stable neurological conditions or those not affected by synaptic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological disorders linked to unstable synaptic connections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic stability, making this approach a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FRANK, CARL ANDREW — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: FRANK, CARL ANDREW
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.