Understanding how certain signals affect brain support cells in different regions of the cortex
Official title: Determining the role of astrocyte BMP signaling in cortical astrocyte heterogeneity
Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-11019741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in the brain affect the different types of support cells called astrocytes, which help keep our brain healthy, and it aims to understand how these signals change how astrocytes work and interact with other brain cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $237,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS137659-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019741 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or other neurological conditions that may be influenced by astrocyte function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to astrocyte function or those not affected by neurological disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling in the diversity of astrocytes, which are crucial support cells in the brain. By examining how these signals influence the behavior and characteristics of astrocytes in various layers of the cortex, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that contribute to their specialization. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze the effects of manipulating BMP signaling on astrocyte function and their interactions with neurons. This work could provide insights into the fundamental biology of astrocytes and their role in brain health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological conditions by targeting astrocyte function.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of manipulating BMP signaling in astrocytes is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding astrocyte roles in brain function.
Where this research is happening
-
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Allen, Nicola J — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Allen, Nicola 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.