Understanding how certain genes control cell behaviors in a simple organism.
Regulation of neurodevelopmental cell behaviors in Ciona
This study is looking at how genes control the way nerve cells move and grow in a simple sea creature called Ciona, which could help us understand more about brain development and related health issues in humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10868503 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic regulation of cell behaviors that are crucial for the development of multicellular organisms, specifically focusing on the Ciona larval nervous system. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR, the study aims to explore how genes influence neuronal migration and axon growth. The research leverages the simplicity of Ciona embryos, which have a small number of neurons and a fully mapped nervous system, allowing for detailed observation of cellular processes in real-time. The findings could provide insights into congenital diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with congenital diseases or neurodevelopmental disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neurodevelopmental processes may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for congenital diseases and neurodevelopmental syndromes through improved understanding of cellular behaviors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using similar genetic approaches to understand developmental processes, indicating potential for impactful findings in this area.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Georgia Institute of Technology — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stolfi, Alberto — Georgia Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Stolfi, Alberto
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 below.