Understanding how nerve cells in the gut develop and function
Mechanisms of Enteric Neuron Diversification
This study is looking at how a specific protein called Sox10 helps develop important nerve cells in the gut, and it aims to understand how problems with this protein might lead to issues like chronic constipation and other gut problems, which could help many people who struggle with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10670171 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that regulate the differentiation of enteric neural progenitors (ENPs), which are crucial for forming the neurons and glial cells in the enteric nervous system. By studying the role of the Sox10 transcription factor, the research aims to uncover how defects in this factor can lead to gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic constipation and abnormal motility. The approach includes analyzing mouse models with mutations in Sox10 to observe changes in neuron types and their impact on gut function. This research could provide insights into the underlying causes of various intestinal disorders affecting a significant portion of the population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic constipation or other functional bowel disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with gastrointestinal disorders unrelated to enteric neuron development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for gastrointestinal disorders that affect millions of patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding enteric neuron development, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Southard-Smith, E Michelle — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Southard-Smith, E Michelle
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.