Understanding how brain cell structures develop during adolescence
Providing New Insight Into Adolescent Dendritic Development
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10991724
This study looks at how the tiny branches in brain cells grow and change during the teenage years, which is important for how we process information, and it hopes to find out how problems with this growth might be linked to mental health issues in young people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10991724 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the growth and stability of dendritic structures in neurons, which are crucial for processing sensory information in the brain. It focuses on how these structures change during adolescence and how disruptions can lead to neuropsychiatric disorders. By examining the role of specific proteins that influence dendritic growth, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind normal and abnormal brain development in young people. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment of adolescent-onset mental health issues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who may be experiencing neuropsychiatric symptoms or are at risk for such conditions.
Not a fit: Patients outside the adolescent age range or those without neuropsychiatric concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into preventing or treating neuropsychiatric disorders that emerge during adolescence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dendritic development, but this specific approach focusing on OMGp signaling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GRUBISHA, MELANIE JEAN — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: GRUBISHA, MELANIE JEAN
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.