PDZ‑RhoGEF (ARHGEF11): a brain protein that controls synapses and thinking
A multidisciplinary approach identifying PDZ-RhoGEF (ARHGEF11) as a critical regulator of synapses and cognition
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11252609
This project looks at whether the brain protein PDZ‑RhoGEF (ARHGEF11) helps shape nerve connections that support thinking and memory, which may matter for people with bipolar disorder and other conditions with cognitive problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11252609 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team combines human genetic findings with lab experiments to understand how ARHGEF11 affects synapses in the cerebral cortex, especially the prefrontal cortex. They examine how the microRNA miR‑132 regulates ARHGEF11 and how that influences dendrites and dendritic spines of neurons. The work uses human GWAS data, cellular studies, and animal models to link molecular changes to learning and memory outcomes. Overall, the goal is to connect a gene identified in human studies to concrete effects on brain circuits and cognition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with bipolar disorder or other conditions that include cognitive difficulties, especially those willing to provide genetic or clinical information, would be the most relevant candidates for related human studies.
Not a fit: People without cognitive symptoms or whose condition is unrelated to ARHGEF11 are unlikely to get direct benefit from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new molecular targets for improving thinking and memory in people with bipolar disorder and other cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies show that miR‑132 affects learning and memory, but directly targeting ARHGEF11 is a newer approach with limited prior testing.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CAHILL, MICHAEL EDWARD — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: CAHILL, MICHAEL EDWARD
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.
Conditions: Bipolar Disorder