Understanding how myelin is targeted in the central nervous system
Official title: Mechanisms of CNS myelin targeting
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11134443 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes help myelin, which protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord, get to where it needs to go, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding why some nerves are covered in myelin while others aren’t, which could help with conditions related to myelin.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $500,200 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134768-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134443 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological conditions that involve myelin damage or dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to myelin or CNS development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain genes influence the targeting of myelin to axons in the central nervous system (CNS). It focuses on specific proteins, such as junction adhesion molecules and transmembrane proteins, that may regulate myelination processes. By studying these proteins in model organisms like zebrafish and mice, the research aims to uncover why some axons are myelinated while others are not. The findings could lead to a better understanding of myelin-related disorders and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for conditions related to myelin dysfunction, such as multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding myelination processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kucenas, Sarah C — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Kucenas, Sarah C
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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.