Understanding how brain circuits maintain stable activity levels during learning.
Mechanisms and Function of Firing Rate Homeostasis in Cortical Circuits
This study is looking at how tiny parts of the brain help keep things balanced while we learn and experience the world, which could help us understand and improve conditions like autism and epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080943 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's microcircuits in the central nervous system maintain stable functioning during learning and sensory experiences. It focuses on mechanisms known as homeostatic plasticity, which help neurons adjust their activity levels to prevent overactivity or underactivity. By studying these processes in animal models, the research aims to identify the cellular and molecular factors involved and develop tools to manipulate these mechanisms in living organisms. This could lead to a better understanding of conditions like autism and epilepsy, where these regulatory processes may be disrupted.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorder or epilepsy who may benefit from improved understanding and treatment of their conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neuronal activity regulation or those not experiencing symptoms of autism or epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions like autism and epilepsy by restoring normal neuronal activity regulation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding homeostatic plasticity, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Waltham, United States
- Brandeis University — Waltham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Turrigiano, Gina G — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Turrigiano, Gina G
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.