Understanding how a specific protein affects brain function and learning
Official title: Mechanism of Par1c-mediated AMPA receptor trafficking and synaptic plasticity
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11165617 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Par1c affects the movement of important receptors in the brain that help with learning and memory, using specially modified mice to see how changes in Par1c might impact thinking and connections between brain cells, which could help us understand conditions like autism and bipolar disorder better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,574 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS143354-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165617 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder, particularly those with genetic variations related to the Par1c protein.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder, or those not exhibiting related cognitive impairments, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Par1c protein in the trafficking of AMPA receptors, which are crucial for synaptic plasticity and learning in the brain. By studying genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to uncover how changes in Par1c levels influence cognitive functions and the formation of synaptic connections. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind long-term potentiation, a process that enhances communication between neurons, which is vital for learning and memory. Insights gained from this research could lead to better understanding of conditions like autism spectrum disorder and bipolar disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying cognitive disorders, potentially leading to improved treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic plasticity and its relation to cognitive disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shear, Rebecca — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Shear, Rebecca
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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.