Protecting brain synapses after traumatic brain injury
Stabilizing the Tripartite Synaptic Complex Following TBI
Researchers are testing ways to stop brain immune cells from releasing D-serine that can overactivate receptors and damage synapses after traumatic brain injury, to help protect thinking and memory in people with TBI or Alzheimer's-related brain injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11259495 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on how brain immune cells called microglia may release the chemical D-serine after injury and cause loss of connections between nerve cells. The team will use genetic and drug approaches in mice and examine human brain tissue and data to see when and how this happens. They will use advanced imaging and transcriptomics (gene activity profiling) to track microglial behavior and synapse changes. The goal is to find ways to stabilize the synaptic network so thinking and memory are preserved.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people who have experienced a recent traumatic brain injury or those with early Alzheimer's-related cognitive symptoms who could donate samples or be considered for future trials.
Not a fit: People with very advanced, late-stage dementia or with medical issues that prevent sample donation or clinic visits are less likely to receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that prevent synapse loss and slow cognitive decline after traumatic brain injury or in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab and animal studies link D-serine and microglia to synapse damage, but human-targeted therapies for this pathway remain largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liebl, Daniel Jon — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Liebl, Daniel Jon
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.