Understanding how brain cells avoid overlapping connections during development
Official title: Investigating stochastic genome folding as a mechanism to generate cell-surface protein diversity required for neural self-avoidance
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11041176 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells called olfactory sensory neurons make special connections by using different proteins, which could help us understand more about brain development and possibly lead to better treatments for neurological disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $638,279 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021047-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041176 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological or neuropsychiatric disorders related to neural circuit formation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neural development or connectivity may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons in the brain develop unique connections by expressing different cell-surface proteins known as Protocadherins. By studying mouse olfactory sensory neurons, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow these cells to choose which proteins to express, thereby influencing their connectivity patterns. The approach involves examining the genetic processes that guide this selection, which is crucial for proper brain function and development. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the underlying causes of neurological disorders linked to these proteins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders by enhancing our understanding of brain connectivity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neural connectivity through similar genetic approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Canzio, Daniele — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Canzio, Daniele
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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.