Understanding how different types of dopamine neurons are formed and maintained
Official title: Molecular specification of dopaminergic neuron diversity
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11030779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called LKB1 affects the different types of dopamine-producing cells in the eye and brain, which are important for mental health, to help us understand more about conditions linked to dopamine problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $593,691 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033772-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by mental health conditions linked to dopamine dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to dopamine signaling or those not experiencing mental health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the diversity of dopamine-producing neurons in the eye and brain, which are crucial for various mental health conditions. The study focuses on a specific protein, LKB1, that regulates the number and types of these neurons. By using advanced genetic and molecular techniques, the researchers aim to uncover how LKB1 influences dopamine neuron diversity and connectivity. This could lead to a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of diseases related to dopamine dysfunction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating mental illnesses and disorders associated with dopamine imbalances.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuron diversity and its implications for mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samuel, Melanie a — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Samuel, Melanie a
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.