Understanding how nerve connections are maintained in a model organism.
Official title: Mechanisms of Presynaptic Maintenance in C. elegans
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11014956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain proteins help keep the connections between nerve cells working well throughout life, using tiny worms called C. elegans to learn more about what keeps our brain and movement functions strong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $78,892 |
| NIH project number | 5F32NS129942-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in the biological mechanisms underlying cognitive and motor functions, particularly those affected by neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or conditions unrelated to synaptic maintenance may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that keep synapses, the connections between nerve cells, functioning throughout life. Using the model organism C. elegans, the study will explore how specific proteins contribute to the maintenance of these connections, which are essential for cognitive and motor functions. The research employs advanced techniques such as the auxin-inducible degron system and visual genetic screening to identify and analyze the proteins involved in synaptic stability. By understanding these processes, the research aims to shed light on the biological challenges of maintaining long-lived synapses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases by improving our understanding of synaptic maintenance.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding synaptic assembly and maintenance in various model organisms, indicating that this approach has a foundation in established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herbst, Wendy — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Herbst, Wendy
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.