Investigating how tiny vesicles support nerve cell development
Official title: The role of extracellular vesicles as a novel trophic signaling platform in nervous system development
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11143615 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles that help support nerve cells in the brain and how a special growth factor can keep these cells alive, which could lead to new ways to understand and improve nerve cell health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $40,553 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS135970-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143615 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting the nervous system, particularly those related to nerve cell survival and development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed nervous systems or those not experiencing nerve cell survival issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of extracellular vesicles in the development of the nervous system, particularly focusing on how these vesicles may provide essential support to neurons. The study examines how nerve growth factor (NGF) influences neuron survival and how vesicles containing TrkA, a receptor for NGF, may help neurons that do not have direct access to NGF. By using advanced cell culture techniques, researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind neuron support and survival, which could lead to new insights into nerve cell development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for promoting nerve cell survival and development, potentially benefiting patients with nerve-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using extracellular vesicles for nerve support is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding cell signaling and survival mechanisms in the nervous system.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sewell, Jonathon — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Sewell, Jonathon
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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.