Understanding how brain connections stay stable over time
How discrete homeostatic signals stabilize synapse function across time
This work explores how the connections between brain cells, called synapses, maintain their strength and function, using fruit flies to learn more about neurological disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11114058 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brain's connections, or synapses, need to stay stable for proper function, but we don't fully understand how they achieve this. This project uses the fruit fly's nerve-muscle connection as a model to uncover the many signals that help synapses stay stable. We aim to map out the sequence of events that allows these connections to adjust and maintain their strength. By combining genetic tools, imaging, and other techniques, we hope to reveal how these signals work together. This foundational knowledge could help us better understand and address neurological conditions where synapse stability is lost.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but insights gained could eventually benefit individuals with neurological disorders linked to synapse instability.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in human trials would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this basic science could lead to a deeper understanding of neurological disorders caused by unstable brain connections, potentially guiding future treatment development.
How similar studies have performed: Many labs have identified individual signaling molecules involved in synapse stability, but this project aims to understand how these signals integrate into a coherent system, representing a novel approach to a complex problem.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frank, Carl Andrew — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Frank, Carl Andrew
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.