Keeping brain and nerve cell activity in balance to protect against ALS and autism
Homeostatic Stabilization of Neural Function in Health and Disease
Researchers are looking for the molecular switches that keep nerve cells stable so future treatments might better protect people with ALS, autism, or related brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11247489 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This lab-focused project uses a stepwise approach that starts with large genetic screens in fruit flies to find genes that control presynaptic homeostatic plasticity (mechanisms that stabilize nerve-cell signaling). Promising findings are then tested in mouse nerve and brain preparations, including models of ALS and frontotemporal dementia, to see if the same protective mechanisms work in mammals. The team focuses on adult brain regions such as the hippocampus and neuromuscular junctions to link basic mechanisms to diseases that affect adults. Results could point to new molecular targets for therapies, though this work is preclinical and done in animal models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), or autism spectrum disorder are the groups most directly relevant to the goals of this research.
Not a fit: People without neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative conditions or anyone seeking an immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets that protect neurons and eventually lead to therapies that slow or prevent degeneration in ALS and improve function in some neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies, including work by this group, have shown presynaptic homeostatic plasticity can be neuroprotective in mouse models, but translating those findings into human treatments remains untested.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Graeme W — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Davis, Graeme 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 below.