Understanding how brain cells refine connections during development
Glial Mechanisms Of Developmental Synapse Refinement
This study looks at how certain brain cells help shape connections between neurons as the brain develops, and it hopes to find out how problems with this process might be linked to mental health issues, which could help patients understand their conditions better.
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 ID | NIH-10468955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which brain cells, particularly glial cells like astrocytes, refine synaptic connections during brain development. It focuses on how synapses, the points of communication between neurons, are formed and eliminated to optimize brain function. By studying these processes, the research aims to uncover how defects in synaptic pruning may contribute to mental health disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological underpinnings of their conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or mental health conditions that may be linked to synaptic dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients with purely genetic or non-neurological conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for mental health disorders by improving our understanding of synaptic development and maintenance.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding synaptic pruning mechanisms, particularly involving glial cells, suggesting that this approach has a solid foundation.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piao, Xianhua — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Piao, Xianhua
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.