Understanding how actin influences brain cell connections
Official title: Actin Cytoskeleton in Postsynaptic Structure and Function
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11101378 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how a protein called actin helps shape the connections between brain cells, which are important for learning and memory, and it could help us understand brain disorders that affect these connections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | June 3, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $473,444 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133798-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11101378 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that affect synaptic function, such as Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely structural brain abnormalities unrelated to synaptic function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of actin, a key protein in cell structure, in the formation and function of synapses in the brain. By examining how actin dynamics affect the structure of dendritic spines, which are crucial for neurotransmitter signaling, the study aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms that support learning and memory. The approach involves advanced biochemical techniques to analyze the behavior of actin in relation to synaptic modifications. Patients may benefit from insights gained into brain disorders linked to synaptic dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for brain disorders by enhancing our understanding of synaptic function and plasticity.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic mechanisms, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, James Q — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Zheng, James Q
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Administrative and Engagement Core for Breast Cancer Breakthrough in Kenya
A national effort in Kenya to speed up how we screen for breast cancer and connect women to treatment, using teamwork across institutions.
-
Collaborative research program to advance patient care
A multi-project research effort at Emory University aims to push forward medical knowledge that could help people with illnesses in the future.
-
Project-003: A multi-partner research program at Emory University
A multi-faceted NIH grant at Emory University aims to advance understanding in a focused area over several years to benefit patients with diseases or conditions connected to the research.
-
Project-002: advancing patient care through coordinated research at Emory
A multi-project NIH grant at Emory aims to translate findings into better care for people with a health condition by coordinating research efforts across teams.
-
Project-006: A Multidisciplinary Emory Initiative to Advance Medical Understanding
A multi-project NIH grant at Emory University aims to push forward medical knowledge in areas that could eventually help patients.
-
Project-005: A multi-component research effort at Emory University
A multi-part NIH grant from Emory University aims to advance understanding in a specific health area over several years with potential patient benefits in the future.
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.