Understanding how certain brain cells develop and migrate in the central nervous system

Transcriptional control of OPC fate specification and homing to gray matter and white matter in the CNS

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO HEALTH SCIS CTR · NIH-11041077

This study is looking at special brain cells that help with nerve development to see how they grow and move in the brain, which could help us understand diseases like ALS and multiple sclerosis better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO HEALTH SCIS CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ALBUQUERQUE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11041077 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the behavior of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), which are crucial for the development of the central nervous system. The study aims to understand how these cells differentiate into oligodendrocytes and migrate to specific areas in the brain, particularly gray and white matter. By examining the role of the transcription factor ASCL1, the research will explore how varying levels of this factor influence OPC fate and their location in the brain. This could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurological diseases such as ALS and multiple sclerosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurological conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or multiple sclerosis.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to OPC development or those without any neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurological diseases by targeting OPC development and function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding OPC behavior and its implications for neurological diseases, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

ALBUQUERQUE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.