Understanding how brain cells clean themselves
Dynamics of Axonal Autophagy in Neurons
This project explores how brain cells naturally clean out waste, which is important for keeping them healthy and preventing nerve damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092741 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brain cells have a natural cleaning process called autophagy that helps remove damaged parts and waste. This process is especially important in the long extensions of nerve cells, called axons, where waste is collected and transported back to the cell body for disposal. When this cleaning system doesn't work correctly, it can lead to nerve damage and conditions like neurodegeneration. We are working to understand exactly how this cleaning process is controlled, what it targets, and how it interacts with other cellular systems to keep our neurons healthy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by neurodegenerative conditions in the future.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by conditions involving nerve cell damage or neurodegeneration would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways to protect nerve cells from damage and potentially lead to treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the general process of autophagy is known, this research delves into specific, unanswered questions about its regulation and function within nerve cells, making its approach novel in these specific areas.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holzbaur, Erika L — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Holzbaur, Erika L
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.