Understanding Endothelin-1's role in brain development and repair
Endotelin-1 role in development and regeneration
This research aims to understand how a specific molecule, Endothelin-1, influences brain development and repair following injury in newborns, which could help children with conditions like cerebral palsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11192384 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many newborns experience diffuse white matter injury, which can lead to lifelong challenges such as cerebral palsy and learning difficulties. We want to discover how brain cells called oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) develop and mature, as their delayed development contributes to these problems. Our work focuses on a molecule called Endothelin-1, which we believe plays a key role in regulating these OPCs. By understanding these basic processes, we hope to find new ways to protect and repair the developing brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit infants who experience diffuse white matter injury and related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are unrelated to diffuse white matter injury or the specific cellular pathways being studied may not directly benefit from this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that prevent or lessen the long-term disabilities caused by brain injury in infants.
How similar studies have performed: Our lab has previously published extensive work on neonatal brain injury and white matter development, providing a strong foundation for this deeper exploration into specific molecular signals.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Seattle Children's Hospital — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gallo, Vittorio — Seattle Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Gallo, Vittorio
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.