Investigating the role of SOX2 in brain cell function and health
Official title: SOX2-regulated astrocyte homeostasis and pathophysiology
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10994136 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called SOX2 affects brain cells called astrocytes, which are important for keeping our brains healthy, to find new ways to help people with neurological diseases and injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $535,654 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134887-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994136 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who may be affected by neurological conditions or injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to astrocyte function or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on astrocytes, the most abundant type of glial cell in the brain, which are crucial for maintaining brain health and function. The study aims to understand how the transcription factor SOX2 influences the behavior and characteristics of astrocytes, especially in response to neurological diseases and injuries. By examining the gene expression controlled by SOX2, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for conditions affecting the central nervous system. Patients may benefit from insights gained about astrocyte function and its implications for brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological diseases by targeting astrocyte function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transcription factors in glial cell function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Fuzheng — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Guo, Fuzheng
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.