Investigating the role of a protein in magnesium balance and brain function.
Official title: Role of CNNM2 in Neuronal Mg2+ Homeostasis, Function and Development
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11038962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called CNNM2 helps control magnesium levels in the body, especially in the brain and kidneys, to better understand its impact on mental health and brain development for people with a specific genetic condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $274,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS140895-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11038962 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic mutations affecting magnesium transport, particularly those with symptoms like seizures, intellectual disabilities, and obesity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without genetic conditions related to magnesium transport or those not experiencing related neurological or developmental issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the protein CNNM2 helps regulate magnesium levels in the body, particularly in the brain and kidneys. Magnesium is essential for many cellular processes, and disruptions in its balance can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders. By studying patients with a specific genetic condition related to CNNM2, the research aims to uncover the protein's role in neuronal development and function. This could lead to insights into how magnesium levels affect mental health and cognitive abilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve our understanding of magnesium's impact on brain health and lead to new treatments for related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding magnesium's role in cellular processes can lead to significant advancements in treating related health conditions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
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Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Runnels, Loren W — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Runnels, Loren W
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.