Understanding how spinal neurons control movement in mammals
Official title: Cellular and Neuronal Circuit Mechanisms Involved in Locomotor Activity
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10993088 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special nerve cells in the spinal cord that help mammals move smoothly, and it aims to understand how these cells work together to create coordinated movements, which could help us learn more about movement problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $584,408 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS125362-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993088 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be adults experiencing movement disorders or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely psychological movement issues or those not experiencing any locomotor difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind locomotion in mammals, focusing on a specific group of spinal interneurons known as ventral spinocerebellar tract (VSCT) neurons. These neurons are crucial for generating the rhythmic patterns necessary for coordinated movement. By studying the cellular properties and connections of these neurons, the research aims to uncover how they interact with motor neurons to facilitate movement. The findings could provide insights into the fundamental processes of locomotion and potential implications for movement disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for movement disorders by enhancing our understanding of how locomotion is controlled at the neuronal level.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding neuronal circuits related to movement, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mentis, George Z — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mentis, George Z
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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.