Understanding how certain currents affect motor neuron function
Official title: Physiological Function of Persistent Inward Currents in Motor Neurons
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10663030 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain electrical currents in nerve cells that control muscles help them work properly, especially during movement, and it aims to find out if these currents are always active or only when we're under stress, which could help us understand more about muscle control and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $408,384 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS130098-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10663030 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with motor neuron diseases or related neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not experiencing motor function impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of persistent inward currents (PICs) in motor neurons, which are crucial for muscle contraction. By using an animal model, the study aims to determine how these currents influence the relationship between synaptic input and the firing rate of motor neurons during voluntary muscle activity. The research will explore whether PICs are active during normal motor function or only under specific conditions like stress. This could provide insights into how motor neuron activity is regulated and its implications for neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for conditions affecting motor function, such as ALS and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on persistent inward currents in motor neurons is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding neuronal function and its implications for various neurological conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuglevand, Andrew J — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Fuglevand, Andrew J
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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.