Understanding how calcium signaling affects neuron health and function
Official title: Structural basis of ER-mitochondria membrane contacts and neuronal health
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10947300 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how calcium signals work in brain cells and how they affect brain health, which could help us understand problems that lead to diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| 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 | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS138590-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947300 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those without neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of calcium (Ca2+) signaling in neurons, particularly at the contact points between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. By investigating these specialized membrane contact sites, the study aims to uncover how Ca2+ transport is regulated and how it influences neuronal health. The research employs advanced structural biology techniques to analyze the interactions of key proteins involved in Ca2+ signaling, which are crucial for various cellular processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how disruptions in these signaling pathways could lead to neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS by targeting calcium signaling pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding calcium signaling in neurons, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serysheva, Irina I — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Serysheva, Irina I
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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.