Understanding how brain cells recycle their communication tools
Membrane Curvature Sensing Mechanisms for Synaptic Vesicle Endocytosis
This study is looking at how a special protein helps brain cells recycle tiny packages that send signals between them, which could help us understand more about mental health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10770559 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which brain cells recycle synaptic vesicles, which are essential for transmitting signals between neurons. By focusing on a specific protein called endophilin, the study aims to uncover how this protein senses the shape of cell membranes to facilitate the recycling process. The research employs advanced techniques to observe these processes in living organisms, which could lead to insights into how disruptions in this recycling can contribute to mental health disorders. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance our understanding of the biological underpinnings of various psychiatric conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing mental health disorders or neurological conditions related to synaptic dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with purely physical health issues unrelated to neurological or psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating mental health disorders by improving synaptic function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bai, Jihong — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Bai, Jihong
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.