Understanding how myelin wraps around nerve fibers
How Does Actin Disassembly Drive Myelin Wrapping?
This study is looking at how a special type of brain cell helps create the protective covering around nerve fibers, which is important for people with conditions like multiple sclerosis, to understand why this process sometimes doesn't work and to find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11054721 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the process by which myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers, is formed by oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system. It focuses on the role of actin filaments, specifically how their disassembly is crucial for the wrapping process of myelin around axons. By studying this mechanism, the research aims to uncover why remyelination fails in conditions like multiple sclerosis, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. The approach includes detailed cellular and molecular analyses using advanced microscopy techniques.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Not a fit: Patients with non-demyelinating neurological conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for demyelinating diseases, potentially restoring nerve function and reducing disability in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cytoskeletal dynamics in cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zuchero, John B — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Zuchero, John B
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.