Understanding how brain cells divide and develop

Asymmetric Cell Division of Vertebrate Radial Glia Neural Progenitors

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11085252

This study is looking at how certain brain cells divide and decide whether to keep making more of themselves or to become different types of brain cells, which is important for brain growth and healing, and it could help us understand brain disorders that happen when this process goes wrong.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085252 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the process of asymmetric cell division (ACD) in neural progenitor cells, which is essential for brain development and repair. By studying how these cells maintain their balance between self-renewal and differentiation, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that govern cell fate decisions. The team will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the role of specific proteins in establishing cell polarity during division, particularly in vertebrate models like zebrafish. Insights gained from this research could lead to a better understanding of brain disorders linked to cell division errors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, as well as those affected by brain tumors or other brain disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain development or cell division may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating brain disorders and improving tissue repair mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in invertebrate models have shown success in understanding cell division mechanisms, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in vertebrate systems.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.