Understanding how the body's internal clock affects myelin formation in the brain
Official title: Circadian mechanisms of myelination
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11002716 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our body's internal clock affects the growth of myelin, which is important for brain health, and it aims to find new ways to help people with memory and attention problems caused by myelin issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $449,749 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126610-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002716 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or ADHD, particularly those experiencing cognitive and behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to myelin formation or those who do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of circadian rhythms in the development and maintenance of myelin, which is crucial for proper brain function. It focuses on how myelin deficits can impact various neurological disorders, including attention and memory issues. By studying the behavior of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) and their ability to form myelin, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate these processes throughout different life stages. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for conditions associated with myelin deficiencies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurological disorders linked to myelin deficits.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of myelin in neurological disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Valdez, Erin G — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Valdez, Erin G
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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.