Understanding how brain receptors interact to regulate synaptic strength
Official title: Structure-guided functional analysis of GluA4-NPTX2 interaction during PVIN homeostatic scaling
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10930129 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain work together to help with learning and memory, and it could lead to new treatments for conditions like schizophrenia, helping patients understand their condition better and find new ways to feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $102,973 |
| NIH project number | 5K99MH132811-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930129 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia that may be linked to synaptic dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to synaptic strength or those without psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between AMPA-type glutamate receptors and the adhesion protein NPTX2, which are crucial for regulating synaptic strength in the brain. By using advanced imaging techniques like Cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to reveal the structural details of these interactions and how they influence learning, memory, and psychiatric disorders. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for conditions like schizophrenia by correcting imbalances in brain circuits. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of their conditions and potential new treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve treatment for psychiatric disorders by enhancing synaptic function.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding receptor interactions and their implications for brain function, making this approach both innovative and grounded in prior success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hale, William Dylan — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Hale, William Dylan
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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.