Understanding Brain Cell Development in Young Rats
p75NTR Regulates Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Development in the SubventricularZone of Postnatal Rats
This project explores how a specific protein, p75NTR, guides the growth of important brain cells called oligodendrocytes in young rats.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128811 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains need the right number of different cells to develop properly. This project focuses on a protein called p75NTR, which appears to control the timing and amount of oligodendrocyte cells produced in the brain. These cells are crucial for forming myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. By studying how p75NTR works in rats, we hope to learn more about how brain development is regulated and what happens when this process goes awry. We will create special rat models to investigate the exact ways p75NTR influences these critical brain cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work may eventually benefit patients with neurological conditions related to brain development or myelin formation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how p75NTR controls brain cell development could lead to new ways to help patients with conditions affecting brain growth or repair.
How similar studies have performed: Initial findings suggest that p75NTR plays a role in restricting premature differentiation of these brain cells, and this project will delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Newark, United States
- Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Friedman, Wilma J — Rutgers the State Univ of Nj Newark
- Study coordinator: Friedman, Wilma 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.