Investigating how TRPV4 affects blood-brain barrier health
Defining TRPV4-mediated cytoskeletal changes that trigger pathological blood-neural barrier disruption
This study is looking at how a specific channel in brain cells, called TRPV4, affects the protective barrier around the brain, which is important for keeping our brains healthy, and it hopes to find new treatment options for people with neurological conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080372 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the TRPV4 ion channel in neurological diseases by examining how its activation leads to changes in the cytoskeleton of blood-brain barrier cells. Using various models, including cellular, fly, and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which TRPV4 contributes to the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, which is crucial for maintaining brain health. The study will explore the signaling pathways involved and the potential for TRPV4 antagonists to serve as therapeutic options for patients with related neurological conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with hereditary motor neuron diseases or other neurological disorders associated with TRPV4 activity.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to TRPV4 or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to TRPV4-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from debilitating neurological diseases linked to TRPV4 dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting ion channels like TRPV4 for therapeutic interventions in neurological diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccray, Brett Andrew — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Mccray, Brett 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.