Understanding how certain factors influence the ability of specific brain cells to regenerate
Official title: Intrinsic and Extrinsic factors regulating neurogenic competence in hypothalamic tanycytes
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10929516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells can grow new neurons and what helps them do that, which could lead to better treatments for metabolic disorders that affect people like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 14, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $49,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F99NS135816-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with metabolic disorders or conditions related to hypothalamic function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to hypothalamic function or those who are not affected by metabolic disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that affect the ability of hypothalamic tanycytes, a type of brain cell, to regenerate and produce new neurons. The study will explore the role of a specific transcription factor, Ascl1, and a signaling pathway known as Shh in promoting the survival of neurons derived from these cells. By using advanced genetic techniques and zebrafish models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate neurogenic competence, which could lead to new treatments for metabolic disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to enhance neuronal regeneration in the hypothalamus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating metabolic and homeostatic disorders by enhancing the regeneration of specific brain cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neurogenic competence in various cell types, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duncan, Leighton Hosea — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Duncan, Leighton Hosea
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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.