Switchable CRISPR gene control to help nerve repair and neuron activity
An inducible dual up/down gene regulation CRISPR system to study neuronal activity and regeneration
Researchers are making a switchable gene-control tool that turns genes on and off in human neurons to help repair damaged nerves.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11266204 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have nerve damage, researchers are building a switchable CRISPR tool that can turn specific genes on and off in human-derived neurons. They will use human iPS cells turned into neurons in the lab to test how different combinations of genes affect axon regrowth. The system is designed to allow timed, sequential activation and repression so it can mimic the changing needs of a healing neuron. By revealing which multi-gene programs best promote regeneration, the work aims to point toward new therapies for nerve injury.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with nerve injuries (for example spinal cord or peripheral nerve damage) who might donate cells or be future candidates for trials are the most relevant group.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to nerve damage or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit from this early lab-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new ways to stimulate nerve regrowth after injury and guide future treatments for spinal cord or peripheral nerve damage.
How similar studies have performed: Related CRISPR activation or repression tools have shown promise in cell and animal studies, but an inducible dual on/off system in human neurons is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qi, Lei Stanley — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Qi, Lei Stanley
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.