Understanding how certain genes help brain cells regenerate in planarians.
Official title: Characterizing genes that regulate dopaminergic neuron regeneration in the planarian brain
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10903221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how planarians, a type of flatworm that can regrow their brains quickly, can help us understand the genes involved in brain cell regeneration, which might lead to better treatments for people recovering from strokes or dealing with brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,629 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS134272-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10903221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced brain injuries or conditions that impair brain function, particularly those over 21 years old.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain injury or regeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms that enable planarians, a type of flatworm, to regenerate their brain cells. By studying these organisms, which can regrow their entire brain within a week, the research aims to identify specific genes that play a crucial role in the regeneration of dopaminergic neurons. The project will establish a timeline for how these neurons mature and regenerate, potentially providing insights that could be applied to human brain injuries. This work could lead to improved therapies for conditions like stroke and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in regenerative therapies for patients with brain injuries or neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of studying regeneration in planarians is established, the specific genetic mechanisms being investigated are novel and could provide new insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clay, Kendall Bleu — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Clay, Kendall Bleu
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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.