Understanding how certain brain cells cause nausea and vomiting

Molecular and circuit mechanisms of nausea-associated behaviors

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10929524

This study is looking at how a part of the brain that helps us feel nauseous works, with the hope of finding better ways to help people who feel sick, especially those dealing with conditions like cancer or diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929524 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind nausea, particularly focusing on a specific area of the brain known as the area postrema, which plays a crucial role in sensing nausea-inducing signals. By using advanced techniques like single-nucleus RNA sequencing and genetic studies, the researchers aim to identify how certain neurons in this area respond to various cues that trigger nausea. The goal is to better understand the biological pathways involved in nausea, which could lead to improved treatments for patients experiencing nausea as a side effect of conditions like cancer or diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who experience nausea as a side effect of treatments for conditions such as cancer or diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience nausea or who have conditions unrelated to nausea may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for nausea, improving the quality of life for patients undergoing various medical treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of nausea, but this specific approach focusing on the area postrema is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-15 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.