Understanding how myelin forms around nerve fibers in the brain
Mechanisms of Developmental Myelination
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help create a protective covering for nerve fibers, which is important for healthy brain function, and it uses zebrafish to see how these cells change and grow when the brain is active.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090465 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the processes involved in the formation of myelin, a protective sheath around nerve fibers in the central nervous system. It focuses on how specific cells, called oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), develop and differentiate into myelinating cells, and how these processes can be influenced by brain activity. The research utilizes zebrafish as a model organism, allowing for advanced imaging techniques to observe these cellular behaviors in real-time. By exploring the interactions between neurons and glial cells, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate myelination during development and in response to neuronal activity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with acquired brain injuries or conditions affecting myelin in the central nervous system.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to myelin formation or those who are not affected by central nervous system injuries may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to myelin damage, such as multiple sclerosis or other acquired brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding myelination processes, but this specific approach using zebrafish is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Appel, Bruce H — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Appel, Bruce H
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.