Understanding how the body's internal clock affects myelin formation in the brain

Circadian mechanisms of myelination

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11002716

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11002716 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease or ADHD, particularly those experiencing cognitive and behavioral challenges.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to myelin formation or those who do not exhibit neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.