Understanding how certain brain receptors influence brain development and function
Official title: Internal Dynamics of the Postsynaptic Density
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11074726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors, called NMDA receptors, help with brain development and communication between brain cells, which could help us understand some learning and developmental challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | November 18, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $789,536 |
| NIH project number | 4R37MH080046-18 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074726 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with developmental or cognitive disorders that may be linked to NMDA receptor dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to NMDA receptor function or those who do not have cognitive or developmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs) in brain development and synaptic transmission. By examining how these receptors interact with their surrounding environment at the synapse, the study aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms that control NMDAR activation. The research employs advanced modeling and experimental techniques to analyze the unique distribution of NMDARs within synapses and their impact on synaptic organization. This could lead to insights into various cognitive and developmental disorders linked to these receptors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cognitive and developmental disorders, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of NMDA receptors in synaptic function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blanpied, Thomas a — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Blanpied, Thomas a
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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.