Understanding how astrocytes function in different parts of the brain
Official title: Astrocyte Transcriptional Dependencies in Brain Circuits
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11083024 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in brain cells called astrocytes might help protect the brain in Alzheimer's disease, with the hope that it could lead to new treatments to improve brain health for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $925,341 |
| NIH project number | 5R35NS132230-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083024 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of dementia or neurological conditions unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of transcription factors in the function of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on how these factors influence the behavior of astrocytes in different brain regions, which may be crucial for maintaining brain health. By examining the specific dependencies of astrocytes on certain transcription factors, the research aims to uncover new insights into their roles in brain circuits and how they may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to targeted therapies that improve brain function in Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in brain function, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deneen, Benjamin — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Deneen, Benjamin
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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.