Understanding how lactate affects nerve cell degeneration
Official title: Defining the Role of Lactate in Axon Degeneration
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10893982 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called lactate might cause nerve cell damage, especially when the cells don't have mitochondria, using tiny worms to help understand the process, with hopes of finding new ways to protect nerves and treat diseases that affect them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,892 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS134151-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893982 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodegenerative disorders or those at risk of developing such conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute injuries or conditions unrelated to neurodegeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lactate in the degeneration of axons, which are critical components of nerve cells. By studying a model organism, C. elegans, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to axon degeneration, particularly in the absence of mitochondria. The project focuses on how lactate accumulation may create an acidic environment that triggers this degeneration. The findings could lead to new strategies for protecting nerve cells and treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow down nerve cell degeneration in various neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding axon degeneration, but this specific focus on lactate is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tal, Hadas — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Tal, Hadas
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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.