Understanding how neural stem cells develop in the brain
Official title: Mechanism and function of interkinetic nuclear migration in mouse embryonic neural stem cells
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-10849855 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special brain cells called neural stem cells grow and organize themselves in developing mouse brains, which could help us understand conditions like autism and other developmental disorders better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $365,719 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS124729-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10849855 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with developmental disabilities, particularly those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed neurological conditions unrelated to developmental disabilities may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the behavior of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the developing brain, focusing on how they grow, differentiate, and organize themselves. By studying mouse embryonic neocortex, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that drive NSC proliferation and their spatial organization during brain development. The findings could provide insights into developmental disabilities and inform the creation of brain organoid cultures for further study. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of conditions like autism and other developmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for developmental disabilities, including autism.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neural stem cell behavior, but this specific approach to studying interkinetic nuclear migration is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xie, Zhigang — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Xie, Zhigang
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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.