Understanding how spinal cord circuits control movement
Official title: Dissecting local (N) and long range (Z) circuit modules within the spinal cord
Funded at Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10991797 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells in the spinal cord help control movement, which could lead to better treatments for people with movement disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,192 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135055-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991797 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting motor control, such as spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely sensory disorders or those not experiencing motor control issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the intricate circuits within the spinal cord that are crucial for motor control. By examining specific types of spinal interneurons, the study aims to differentiate between local and long-range neurons and their roles in coordinating movement. Using advanced genetic techniques, researchers will analyze how these neurons interact to influence motor behaviors such as precision and coordination. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of motor function and potential therapeutic targets for movement disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating motor control disorders and improving rehabilitation methods for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding spinal cord circuits, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into motor control.
Where this research is happening
-
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pfaff, Samuel L. — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Pfaff, Samuel L.
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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.