Understanding how nanoscale structures affect brain inhibition and plasticity
Official title: The role of subsynaptic nanoscale architecture in inhibitory synaptic plasticity
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11068688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures in the brain help control nerve activity, focusing on a specific type of receptor that plays a key role in this process, and it hopes to shed light on how these changes might relate to conditions like autism and anxiety, ultimately helping patients understand their experiences better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,670 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS141320-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, or other related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic inhibition or those who do not have neurological or psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of nanoscale architecture in the brain's inhibitory synapses, which are crucial for regulating neuronal activity. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover how GABA receptors are organized at these synapses and how this organization influences synaptic strength and plasticity. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including autism and anxiety. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how synaptic changes affect their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders by targeting synaptic plasticity mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic plasticity and its implications for neurological disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stewart, Amber Rose — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Stewart, Amber Rose
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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.