Understanding how proteins regulate potassium channels involved in epilepsy
Official title: Novel regulators of Slo2 potassium channels
Funded at University of North Texas · NIH-11009035 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins affect potassium channels in nerve cells, which are important for conditions like epilepsy, using tiny worms to help us learn more about these channels and how they might relate to human brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denton, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $325,907 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM139620-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009035 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with epilepsy or genetic predispositions to neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-genetic forms of epilepsy or those not affected by neurological conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the regulatory mechanisms of Slo2 potassium channels, which are crucial for neuronal activity and are linked to conditions like epilepsy. By studying the nematode C. elegans and its SLO-2 channel, the research aims to identify specific proteins that influence the function of these channels. The approach includes genetic and molecular techniques to uncover how these proteins interact with Slo2 channels, potentially leading to insights into their roles in human neurological disorders. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the genetic factors contributing to epilepsy and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating epilepsy and improving neurological health.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in identifying genetic regulators of ion channels, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas
Denton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Bojun — University of North Texas
- Study coordinator: Chen, Bojun
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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.