Understanding how specific brain neurons control breathing and arousal responses to carbon dioxide.
Official title: Molecular physiology of Phox2b-expressing RTN chemoreceptor neurons
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11028995 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene affects certain brain cells that help control breathing, which could help us understand breathing problems in babies and conditions like sudden infant death syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 4, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $744,305 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL177563-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11028995 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with congenital central hypoventilation syndrome or those at risk for sudden infant death syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with respiratory issues unrelated to carbon dioxide sensitivity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a group of brainstem neurons that are sensitive to carbon dioxide levels and play a crucial role in regulating breathing and arousal. The study focuses on the Phox2b gene, which is important for the development and function of these neurons. By examining how this gene affects the neurons' ability to respond to carbon dioxide, the research aims to uncover potential mechanisms behind conditions like congenital central hypoventilation syndrome and sudden infant death syndrome. The approach includes using viral techniques to manipulate gene expression in these neurons to better understand their role in respiratory control.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for respiratory disorders associated with impaired responses to carbon dioxide.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of similar neuronal pathways in respiratory control, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bayliss, Douglas a. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Bayliss, Douglas a.
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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.