Understanding how new neurons can be generated in the aging brain.
Official title: Generation of new neurons in the aging adult brain: identifying mechanisms of adult neurogenesis by exploiting single cell spatial transcriptomics.
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11033872 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how certain brain cells can be turned into new neurons as we age, which could help develop new treatments for conditions like Huntington's disease and Frontotemporal dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $126,956 |
| NIH project number | 1K99AG090813-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033872 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing neurodegenerative diseases or age-related cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those who do not have neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the generation of new neurons in the aging adult brain, particularly focusing on how certain glial cells can be converted into neurons. By using advanced techniques like single cell spatial transcriptomics, the study aims to identify the molecular events that facilitate this conversion and the maturation of these new neurons. The approach involves delivering a specific antisense oligonucleotide to the brain, which temporarily suppresses a protein that inhibits neuron formation. This could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's disease and Frontotemporal dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that restore lost neuronal function in aging and neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in similar approaches to neuron generation, but this specific method is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maimon, Roy — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Maimon, Roy
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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.