Understanding how brain activity shapes neural connections during critical developmental periods.
Determining cell-type specificity for a nonclassical MHC class I during an activity-dependent cortical critical period.
This study is looking at how brain activity affects the connections between brain cells during important growth stages, focusing on a molecule called Qa-1 that might help keep these connections healthy, which could lead to new ways to protect or improve brain function in people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10705621 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how neural activity influences the formation and pruning of synapses in the brain during crucial developmental phases. It focuses on a specific molecule, Qa-1, which is believed to play a role in regulating synaptic plasticity in the visual cortex. By examining the expression and function of Qa-1 in different cell types, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could be disrupted in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to protect or restore synaptic function in neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other neurodegenerative disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by synaptic plasticity issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating synaptic dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic plasticity and its implications in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shatz, Carla J — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Shatz, Carla J
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 below.