Understanding how calcium channels affect brain function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Homeostatic regulation of CaV2 voltage-gated calcium channels at synapses
Funded at Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci · NIH-10951956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain channels in brain cells help keep our brain activity balanced, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, using tiny worms to see how changes in these channels affect brain communication, which could lead to new ways to help improve brain function for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 7, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $434,225 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139113-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of voltage-gated calcium channels in maintaining the balance of neural activity in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders. By using a simple model organism, the nematode C. elegans, researchers will manipulate these channels to observe how changes in their abundance affect neurotransmitter release and synaptic function. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind impaired neural communication that can lead to cognitive decline. Patients may benefit from insights gained about potential therapeutic targets for improving brain function in Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain function and slow cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium channel function in other neurological disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci
North Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Hongkyun — Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci
- Study coordinator: Kim, Hongkyun
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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.