Understanding how corticospinal neurons develop and regenerate after injury
Subcellular investigation of molecular programs responsible for corticospinal neuron development and treatment-enhanced regeneration
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that help control movement grow and heal after a spinal cord injury, with the hope of finding new ways to help people recover better from these injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892644 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular programs that govern the development and regeneration of corticospinal neurons, which are crucial for voluntary motor control. By examining the differences in gene and protein expression in these neurons during their growth and after spinal cord injury, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that hinder regeneration. The approach involves detailed analysis of growth cones and neuron cell bodies to identify potential targets for enhancing recovery. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for spinal cord injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and are seeking potential new treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries that are not amenable to regenerative therapies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in therapies that enhance recovery from spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neuronal regeneration, but this specific approach focusing on corticospinal neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vicent Allende, Maria Alejandra — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Vicent Allende, Maria Alejandra
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.