Understanding how a protein affects brain cell organization and function in children
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of spectrin-dependent axonal organization and function in cerebellar granule cells
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10892025 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called βII-spectrin to understand how it helps brain cells work properly, especially in kids, and how problems with this protein might be linked to conditions like autism, ADHD, and developmental delays, with the hope of finding better treatments for these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $36,954 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS129292-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892025 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or related developmental delays.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have neurological or developmental disorders related to the βII-spectrin protein may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called βII-spectrin in the organization and function of brain cells, particularly in the cerebellum, which is crucial for motor control and cognitive functions. By studying how this protein interacts with other cellular components, the research aims to uncover its impact on conditions like autism, ADHD, and developmental delays. The approach includes examining the cellular mechanisms and dynamics of brain cells in young children, focusing on how disruptions in these processes may lead to neurological issues. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted therapies or interventions for related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or interventions for children with autism, ADHD, and related developmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of similar proteins in neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Edwards, Reginald James — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Edwards, Reginald James
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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.