Understanding how nerve development affects bladder function in children
Official title: Neural crest-derived pelvic ganglia and the effects of developmental deficits on lower urinary tract innervation
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11120958 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells help form the pelvic ganglia, which are important for controlling the bladder, to better understand why some children might have bladder problems, and it could lead to new treatments for these issues.
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 start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $330,592 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136891-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11120958 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are children aged 0-11 years who experience bladder control issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 0-11 years or those without bladder dysfunction may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neural crest progenitors in the development of pelvic ganglia, which are crucial for bladder control. By studying how these nerve cells differentiate and mature, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that may lead to bladder dysfunction in children. The approach involves using genetically modified mice to observe the effects of specific gene mutations on bladder innervation and function. Insights gained from this research could help in developing targeted therapies for urinary tract conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for bladder dysfunction in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding nerve development and its impact on bladder function, making this approach promising.
Where this research is happening
-
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
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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.