Understanding how certain signals influence the development of nerve cells and support cells in the brain and spinal cord.
Official title: Investigating the role of Wnt signaling effectors on the neuron-glia switch and OPC specification during development and after injury.
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11292372 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the brain and spinal cord decide whether to become nerve cells or supportive cells, using zebrafish as a model because they can heal their nervous system well, and the goal is to find ways to help people recover from nerve injuries better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32NS134612-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11292372 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries or neurological disorders that affect nerve cell function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to nerve regeneration or those who are not experiencing neurological issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular signals that control the transition from forming nerve cells to forming supportive glial cells during brain and spinal cord development and after injury. By studying zebrafish, which have a remarkable ability to regenerate their nervous system, the research aims to uncover how specific progenitor cells can switch their fate to become either neurons or oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs). The approach includes advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to identify the unique factors that guide these developmental processes. This knowledge could lead to new strategies for enhancing nerve regeneration in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in treatments for spinal cord injuries and other neurological conditions by improving nerve regeneration.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown promise in understanding nerve regeneration mechanisms in other models.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arena, Kimberly — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Arena, Kimberly
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.