Understanding how glial cells develop and how white matter injury affects them
Deciphering the mechanisms of glia development and white matter injury
This study is looking at how certain proteins help repair the protective covering around nerve fibers in the brain after injuries, which could lead to new treatments for people with neurological conditions caused by white matter damage.
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 ID | NIH-11001972 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of myelin, a protective sheath around nerve fibers, and how injuries to white matter in the brain can disrupt this process. It focuses on the role of specific proteins, particularly Daam2, in the differentiation of oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for myelination. By exploring the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways involved, the research aims to uncover how these processes can be manipulated to improve recovery from white matter injuries. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for neurological conditions associated with white matter damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that involve white matter injury, such as multiple sclerosis or traumatic brain injury.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to white matter injury or those who do not have any neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for treating white matter disorders and improving neurological health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of Wnt signaling in myelination, but the specific approach of this study is novel and aims to fill critical knowledge gaps.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Hyun Kyoung — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Lee, Hyun Kyoung
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.