Understanding how brain cells influence visual development
The role of astrocytes in visual critical period plasticity
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · SALK INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL STUDIES · NIH-10917196
This study is looking at how special brain cells called astrocytes help our vision develop during childhood and adolescence by changing how our brains respond to what we see, using mice to learn more about this process and its impact on visual disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SALK INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL STUDIES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10917196 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in shaping how our visual system develops during critical periods of childhood and adolescence. By studying mice, the researchers will manipulate visual experiences to see how these astrocytes affect the brain's ability to adapt and change. The project will involve advanced techniques like electrophysiology and imaging to observe changes in brain circuits when astrocytes are altered. This work aims to uncover the mechanisms behind visual plasticity, which could have implications for understanding visual disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 12-20 who may be experiencing visual development issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are adults over 21 years old or those without visual development concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating visual impairments and enhancing visual development in children.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding the role of brain cells in neural plasticity, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, UNITED STATES
- SALK INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL STUDIES — La Jolla, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SANCHO FERNANDEZ, LAURA — SALK INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL STUDIES
- Study coordinator: SANCHO FERNANDEZ, LAURA
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.