Understanding how neuron-astrocyte communication affects brain circuit formation
Sonic Hedgehog Dependent Neuron-Astrocyte Crosstalk During Cortical Circuit Assembly
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11065453
This study is looking at how brain cells called neurons and astrocytes work together, especially focusing on a protein called Sonic Hedgehog, to better understand brain development and how it might relate to conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11065453 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the interactions between neurons and astrocytes, a type of brain cell, to understand how they communicate and work together to form neural circuits. By using advanced genetic tools in mice, the study aims to manipulate a specific signaling protein called Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) to see how it influences the behavior of astrocytes during brain development. The researchers will employ cutting-edge microscopy techniques to visualize these interactions and assess their impact on the formation and function of neural circuits. This work could provide insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying conditions like autism spectrum disorder.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or those with related neurodevelopmental conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders unrelated to astrocyte-neuron interactions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuron-glial interactions, but this specific approach using SHH signaling is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARWELL, COREY C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: HARWELL, COREY C
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.
Conditions: autism spectral disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Autistic Disorder, autistic spectrum disorder