Understanding how human brain cells age
Cell-intrinsic and contextual determinants of aging by human glial progenitor cells
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11142560
This work explores why certain brain cells, called glial progenitor cells, may stop working well as we get older, which can lead to problems like myelin loss in the brain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11142560 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brains contain special cells called glial progenitor cells (GPCs) that can help repair damage, especially when the protective myelin around nerve cells is lost. However, in older age or with certain brain diseases, these GPCs might not work as effectively. This project aims to discover the specific genetic and cellular changes that cause GPCs to fail with age. By understanding these changes, we hope to find ways to reactivate these cells, helping them to continue repairing and protecting the brain. The ultimate goal is to prevent myelin loss and maintain brain health as we age.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding cellular processes in the human brain related to aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct treatment options would not find direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that restore the brain's natural repair mechanisms, potentially preventing or slowing down age-related brain diseases and myelin loss.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach to target repressive networks in human GPCs is novel, other research has shown the importance of GPCs in brain repair.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOLDMAN, STEVEN ALAN — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: GOLDMAN, STEVEN ALAN
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.