Understanding How Brain Cell Connections Send Signals
CRCNS: Biophysical modeling of axonal morphology and function
This project looks at how the tiny parts of brain cells that send signals, called axons, are shaped and how that shape helps them communicate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11180395 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brain cells communicate through long, thin connections called axons, which send electrical signals. This project explores how the shape of these axons, which might not be smooth but rather have a "pearls-on-a-string" appearance, affects how quickly and effectively they send messages. We are looking at how the cell's internal structure and outer membrane properties influence these shapes and, in turn, the electrical signals. Understanding these basic mechanisms could help us learn more about how the brain functions normally and what goes wrong in certain brain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future studies building on this knowledge could seek individuals with neurological conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct treatment options would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of fundamental brain function, which is crucial for developing future treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific "pearls-on-a-string" axon morphology is a newer observation, the broader field of biophysical modeling of neuronal function has a long history of successful contributions to neuroscience.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rangamani, Padmini — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Rangamani, Padmini
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.