Understanding how microRNAs control nerve cell growth and direction
Official title: The coordination of miRNAs in axon guidance
Funded at University of Toledo · NIH-10437232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules called microRNAs help guide the growth and connections of nerve cells, using chicken embryos and mice, to better understand what goes wrong in neurological disorders and how we might help treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $451,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS126957-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10437232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with neurological disorders linked to axon guidance defects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to axon guidance or those with established nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microRNAs in guiding the growth and direction of nerve cells during development. By examining how these small RNA molecules regulate the expression of specific genes, particularly the Robo1 gene, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that ensure proper nerve cell connections. The research uses chicken embryos and mouse models to explore how changes in microRNA levels can affect nerve cell behavior and potentially lead to neurological disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the underlying causes of these disorders and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating neurological disorders caused by improper nerve cell guidance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding the role of microRNAs in gene regulation, making this approach promising yet still exploring novel aspects of nerve cell guidance.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toledo
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Guofa — University of Toledo
- Study coordinator: Liu, Guofa
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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.