Understanding how Cas proteins guide brain cell connections during development

Role of Cas adaptor proteins during cortical axon pathfinding

NIH-funded research University of California Riverside · NIH-11013696

This study is looking at how certain proteins help brain cells connect with each other, which is important for things like memory and perception, and it aims to understand how problems with these connections might lead to brain disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Riverside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, United States)
Project IDNIH-11013696 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Cas adaptor proteins in the development of brain connections, which are crucial for functions like perception and memory. By examining how these proteins interact with various signaling pathways during critical developmental stages, the research aims to uncover how neurons navigate and form connections. The study employs advanced tools to analyze the function of Cas proteins in guiding axons, which are the long projections of neurons that connect different brain regions. This work could provide insights into the mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental disorders caused by disruptions in brain circuit formation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who may be affected by neurodevelopmental disorders.

Not a fit: Patients over 21 years old or those without neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurodevelopmental disorders by enhancing our understanding of brain development.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding signaling pathways in brain development can lead to significant advancements in treating related disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Riverside, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.