Understanding how brain receptors influence behavior
Official title: Mapping the functional GPCR-ome and its signaling consequences in neurons
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11063783 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain chemicals work with specific receptors in nerve cells to understand how they affect brain function and behavior, which could help us learn more about how our brains work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $79,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32MH136662-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11063783 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who may have conditions related to neuromodulation or GPCR signaling.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neuromodulation or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neuromodulators, which are chemicals that influence brain activity, interact with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in neurons. By using advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptomics and biosensors, the study aims to identify which receptors are active in specific neurons and how they affect signaling pathways. The research will involve examining primary neuron cultures and live brain slices to understand the complex signaling mechanisms at play. This could lead to insights into how different receptors contribute to brain function and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain signaling, potentially leading to new treatments for neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding GPCR signaling, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Xinyi Jenny — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: He, Xinyi Jenny
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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.