Understanding how hemoglobin in brain cells adapts to energy needs
Official title: The hemoglobin beta subunit regulates chromatin and transcription to adapt to metabolic demands
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-10974639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called hemoglobin beta subunit (Hbb) helps brain cells manage their energy needs and how exercise might change this process, which could lead to new ideas for treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | September 4, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $456,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS133909-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of hemoglobin beta subunit (Hbb) in brain cells, particularly how it influences gene expression and chromatin structure to meet the brain's metabolic demands. The study will utilize advanced techniques like ChIP sequencing to identify where Hbb binds in the genome and which genes it regulates. Additionally, the research will explore how Hbb affects energy metabolism in neurons and the impact of exercise on these processes. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into brain function and potential therapeutic targets for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating or preventing Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of hemoglobin in brain cells is less explored, related research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic adaptations in neurons.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonough, Jennifer — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Mcdonough, Jennifer
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Telomere Overhang Imaging Tool to Understand DNA Damage and Telomere Biology
A hospital or research lab could use a new high-end microscope to study how telomeres protect chromosomes and how DNA damage impacts telomere biology.
-
Embedded Acceptance and Commitment Training helps veterinary and medical students cope with tough client interactions
A university program will test a flexible, online training called Unburdened to help veterinary technician and medical students stay calm and focused during challenging client moments.
-
Magnetic nanoparticle stimulation to remove Alzheimer’s plaques
This work uses tiny magnetic particles and targeted magnetic fields to try to remove the amyloid plaques that build up in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
-
DNA nanodevices to control cell movement
Tiny DNA-built springs are used to change how cells move, aiming to help people with diseases where cell movement is abnormal, such as some autoimmune conditions.
-
How the protective end caps of chromosomes (telomeres) fold and are accessed
This project looks at how the single-stranded ends of human chromosomes fold and where they are open to enzymes, which matters for cancer and cell aging.
-
How the brain's daily clock controls ovulation
Researchers are learning how the brain's master clock signals reproductive brain cells to time the hormone surge that triggers ovulation, which could help people with timing-related fertility issues.
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.