Understanding and manipulating brain cells called astrocytes
Official title: A Chemical Strategy for Imaging and Manipulating the Brain's Astrocytes
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11168647 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells called astrocytes to see how they work in both healthy and sick brains, using a new method to tag and change these cells so we can learn more about them and find better treatments for brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $361,975 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS131373-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11168647 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that may involve astrocyte dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to astrocyte function or those who do not have neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in both healthy and diseased brain functions. By developing a chemical strategy, the researchers aim to visualize and manipulate these cells to better understand their interactions with neurons. The approach involves using chemical tags that can target astrocytes and deliver various tools, such as fluorescent markers or drugs, to study and potentially modify their behavior. This could lead to new insights into brain function and treatment options for neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for brain disorders by enhancing our understanding of astrocyte functions.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting astrocytes is relatively novel, similar strategies in neuroscience have shown promise in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Laughlin, Scott T. — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Laughlin, Scott T.
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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.