Understanding how proteins help neurons manage cellular processes
Official title: Visualizing and Manipulating Neuronal ESCRT Dynamics in vivo
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-11036028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help nerve cells work properly by managing the movement of materials inside the cells and fixing their membranes, using fruit fly neurons to learn more about these important processes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $438,833 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS140785-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036028 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by Alzheimer's disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of ESCRT (Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport) machinery in neurons, focusing on how these protein complexes are regulated and function in cellular processes. By developing new tools to visualize and manipulate ESCRT dynamics in live neurons, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind essential functions such as endosomal traffic and membrane repair. Using Drosophila neurons as a model, the study will explore how these processes are spatially and temporally regulated, which is crucial for maintaining neuronal health and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of visualizing ESCRT dynamics in neurons is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding cellular processes in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodal, Avital Adah — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Rodal, Avital Adah
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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.