Understanding how astrocytes support brain cell connections
Official title: Defining the Role of Astrocytic Lysosome trafficking and Exocytosis in Regulating Synapse Maturation
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11056879 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells called astrocytes help keep our brain connections strong by releasing important signals when neurons are active, which is key for healthy brain function and preventing issues like neurodegeneration.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS132453-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056879 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting synaptic function or neurodevelopment, such as autism spectrum disorders or early-onset neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established neurodegenerative diseases who are beyond the early stages may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in supporting the connections between neurons. It focuses on how astrocytes release important signaling molecules like ATP in response to neuronal activity, which is crucial for the maturation and functioning of synapses. The study will explore the mechanisms of lysosome trafficking and exocytosis in astrocytes, particularly how these processes are influenced by the cytoskeletal organization within astrocytes that are connected to neurons. By examining these interactions, the research aims to uncover the fundamental processes that maintain healthy brain function and prevent neurodegeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into brain health and potential therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding astrocyte functions, but this specific approach to lysosome trafficking in synaptic contexts is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coughlan, Maeve Louise — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Coughlan, Maeve Louise
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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.