Synaptic Bridges: How Neurons Connect and Adapt
Official title: Synaptic Organizers: Dynamic Regulation of Trans-synaptic Bridges
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11467938 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A scientist-led study will explore how specific neuron connectors (neurexins) help form and adjust brain circuits related to behavior and mental health disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2006 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2027 |
| Award (this year) | $738,272 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH077303-20 |
| Project ID | NIH-11467938 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, or intellectual disability may ultimately benefit from translated therapies arising from this research.
✕Less likely to help
This basic science project does not enroll patients and does not provide direct patient care during its investigations.
What this research studies
Researchers will investigate how trans-synaptic bridges, built by neurexins and their partner proteins, are formed and regulated at the molecular level. The project uses models of neuronal connections to uncover mechanisms that control when and how these bridges strengthen or weaken, which can influence brain signaling and behavior. By understanding these dynamic control processes, the work aims to reveal potential targets for new treatments of schizophrenia, autism, and intellectual disability. The study combines molecular biology with neuronal systems to link basic mechanisms to human brain function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could identify new targets to develop medications that better modulate brain connectivity in neuropsychiatric conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on synaptic organizers has linked molecular mechanisms to neural connectivity and behavior, supporting potential translational impact.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rudenko, Gabrielle — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Rudenko, Gabrielle
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
HPV and pregnancy risk: a big study following 1,280 pregnancies
A large pregnancy study at UTMB looks at whether human papillomavirus (HPV) during pregnancy is linked to problems like preterm birth.
-
West African Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
A national West African collaboration is studying how dangerous viruses spread between animals and people, with the goal of improving prevention and response.
-
West African Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
A multi-country program in West Africa aims to better understand how emerging infectious diseases spread from animals to people and how to prevent outbreaks that could affect the U.S.
-
West Africa Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
A patient-facing center in West Africa studies how emerging viruses spread to people and livestock so we can better protect communities and prevent outbreaks.
-
West African Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
Aiming to understand and prevent emerging viruses in West Africa to protect people in the U.S. and globally.
-
West Africa Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
A US-funded center in West Africa aims to better understand and prevent outbreaks of deadly viruses by studying how diseases spread between animals, people, and the environment.
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.