Understanding how brain cells regenerate and degenerate with age.
Official title: Evolutionary Conserved Mechanisms that Control Central Nervous System Development Regeneration and Degeneration
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11116945 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells called neural stem cells can help with brain growth and healing, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's Disease, using a unique sea creature as a model, to find new ways to improve brain health for people as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,280 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG076908-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11116945 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include adults over 21 years old, particularly those experiencing age-related neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's Disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative disorders not related to aging or those under 21 years old may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of adult neural stem cells (NSCs) in brain development, regeneration, and neurodegeneration, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's Disease. The team is exploring the evolutionary mechanisms behind these processes using a unique model organism, the colonial tunicate Botryllus schlosseri, which exhibits remarkable regenerative abilities. By isolating and studying human NSCs, the research aims to uncover fundamental principles that could lead to new treatments for age-related brain disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to enhance brain cell regeneration and combat neurodegeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve brain health and function in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using stem cells for regenerative medicine, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Voskoboynik, Ayelet — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Voskoboynik, Ayelet
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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.