Investigating the role of brain cells in Rett syndrome
Official title: The Pathophysiological Role of Cerebellar Glia in Rett Syndrome
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10824337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells, called Bergmann glia, might play a role in the challenges faced by girls with Rett syndrome, and it aims to learn more about how these cells work in mice with a similar genetic change.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $328,386 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS121542-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10824337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are girls and women diagnosed with Rett syndrome, particularly those experiencing motor and social challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Rett syndrome who do not exhibit significant motor or social deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how specific brain cells, called Bergmann glia, contribute to the symptoms of Rett syndrome, a condition that primarily affects girls and leads to severe intellectual disabilities. The study will utilize advanced techniques to observe and measure the function of these cells in mice that have a genetic mutation similar to that found in Rett syndrome. By examining how these glial cells behave and interact with other brain cells, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to motor and social deficits in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for improving motor and social functions in individuals with Rett syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of glial cells in Rett syndrome is an emerging area of research, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding their impact on brain function in related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Wei — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Li, Wei
Related research
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This project explores turning on the silent MECP2 gene on the inactive X chromosome to help people with Rett syndrome feel better.
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Studying how deep brain stimulation helps Rett syndrome in mice
Researchers are testing how deep brain stimulation affects brain cells and memory in a mouse model of Rett syndrome to uncover mechanisms that could guide future therapies.
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Molecular Pathways Behind Rett Syndrome in Humans
A patient-focused look at how changes in the MECP2 gene affect brain function and development in Rett syndrome.
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.