Understanding how Kainate receptors work in the brain
Official title: Molecular regulation of Kainate receptors
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10952883 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain receptors that play a big role in how our brains work and can affect conditions like epilepsy and movement disorders, to find new ways to improve treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $452,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139087-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952883 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological disorders such as epilepsy, intellectual disabilities, or movement disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to Kainate receptor dysfunction may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates Kainate receptors (KARs), which are crucial for normal brain function and are involved in various neurological disorders. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to uncover the structural and functional characteristics of these receptors, particularly how they behave when activated. The research focuses on specific mutations that prevent desensitization of the receptors, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for conditions such as epilepsy and movement disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these receptors can be manipulated for better treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for neurological disorders linked to Kainate receptor dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding ionotropic glutamate receptors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gangwar, Shanti Pal — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Gangwar, Shanti Pal
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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.