Mapping the development of neurons in the mouse spinal cord
Official title: Molecular and anatomical atlases from progenitors to adult neurons in the mouse spinal cord
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11046620 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how nerve cells in the mouse spinal cord grow and change from their early stages to their adult forms, especially in the part that helps us feel things like pain and touch, to better understand how these important circuits work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,129,792 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134799-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046620 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions affecting the spinal cord or those interested in neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to spinal cord development or function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons in the mouse spinal cord develop from progenitor cells to their adult forms. By using advanced genetic tracing techniques, the study aims to track the changes in gene expression and anatomical structure over time. The focus is on understanding the dorsal spinal cord, which plays a crucial role in processing sensory information such as pain and touch. This comprehensive mapping could provide insights into the complexities of spinal cord circuits that are not captured by current methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of spinal cord development and potentially inform treatments for spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using genetic lineage tracing to understand neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lai, Helen — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lai, Helen
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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.