Manipulating protein structures in the brain to understand their role in neural function
Official title: Tools for manipulating protein condensates at the synapse
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10725576 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain protein structures in the brain help neurons communicate and adapt, and by tweaking these structures, researchers hope to learn more about their role in brain health, which could help people with brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH134019-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10725576 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neuropsychiatric conditions or cognitive disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute brain injuries or those not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific protein structures, known as condensates, function in the brain, particularly at synapses where neurons communicate. By developing tools to either strengthen or weaken these structures, the research aims to observe the effects on synaptic function and plasticity. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these processes relate to brain disorders and cognitive diseases. The study employs advanced biophysical methods to manipulate these condensates in neurons, providing a deeper understanding of their role in brain health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating brain disorders and cognitive diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in manipulating biomolecular structures in the brain, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kennedy, Matthew J — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Kennedy, Matthew J
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.