Understanding how brain immune cells interact with neurons
Official title: How microglia sense and regulate neuronal activity in the adult brain
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11144614 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain immune cells called microglia react to different levels of brain activity, like during seizures or when you're under anesthesia, to help us understand more about brain function and conditions like epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $877,550 |
| NIH project number | 5R35NS132326-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11144614 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing neurological conditions such as epilepsy or those undergoing anesthesia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable neurological conditions who do not experience seizures or require anesthesia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, the immune cells in the brain, in sensing and responding to neuronal activity. It aims to uncover how these cells react during periods of heightened activity, like seizures, and reduced activity, such as during anesthesia. By using advanced imaging techniques and genetic tools, the study will explore the signaling pathways that microglia use to communicate with neurons, which could lead to new insights into brain function and disorders. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how brain immune responses can influence conditions like epilepsy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurological conditions by targeting microglial responses.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microglial functions, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Long-Jun — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Wu, Long-Jun
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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.