Protecting the brain's blood–brain barrier by targeting GPR124, RECK, and WNT7
Mechanistic and Therapeutic Studies of GPR124/RECK/WNT7-Regulated Blood-Brain Barrier Function
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124229
This work looks at proteins that help keep the blood–brain barrier sealed to help people with conditions like stroke, brain tumors, or multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124229 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers at Stanford are studying how three proteins—GPR124, RECK, and WNT7—work together to keep the blood–brain barrier tight and prevent harmful substances from entering the brain. The team uses lab-grown cells, biochemical tests, and animal models with specific genes turned off to map how these molecules interact. They are testing ways to boost or mimic this pathway so blood vessels in the brain stay protected during injury or disease. The long-term aim is to turn those lab findings into treatments that reduce brain swelling and damage in human patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with recent ischemic stroke, glioblastoma, or active multiple sclerosis could be candidates for future clinical trials based on these findings.
Not a fit: People without diseases affecting the blood–brain barrier or those seeking immediate treatment should not expect direct benefit from this laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that strengthen the blood–brain barrier and reduce brain damage in stroke, brain tumors, and multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cell and animal research supports a key role for the GPR124/RECK/WNT7 pathway in blood–brain barrier formation, but moving this into human treatments remains largely untested.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KUO, CALVIN J — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KUO, CALVIN 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 below.