Understanding how glial cells help remove unnecessary synapses during brain development and aging
Official title: Investigating novel mechanisms that underlie glial-mediated synapse elimination in development and aging
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10883653 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells help remove connections between nerve cells as we grow and age, using fruit flies to find out what molecules are involved, and it hopes to help people understand conditions like autism and memory problems better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $112,439 |
| NIH project number | 5K99NS133298-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883653 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorders or age-related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic dysfunction or those who are not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glial cells in the elimination of synapses, which are the connections between neurons, during both development and aging. By using a model organism called Drosophila, the researchers have identified specific molecules that influence synapse number when glial cells are altered. The study aims to understand how these mechanisms work and their implications for neurodevelopmental disorders and age-related cognitive decline. Patients may benefit from insights gained about synapse regulation and its impact on conditions like autism and memory impairment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurodevelopmental disorders and cognitive decline associated with aging.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding glial cell functions can lead to significant advancements in treating neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jay, Taylor Reagan — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Jay, Taylor Reagan
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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.