Understanding how the brain takes up iron and its regulation
Mechanisms and Regulation of Brain Iron Uptake
This study is looking at how iron gets to the brain and how things like age and gender affect this process, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's and Restless Legs Syndrome, to help find new ways to treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10745966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which iron is delivered to the brain, focusing on the role of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and endothelial cells. It aims to uncover how factors like age, sex, and systemic iron levels influence brain iron uptake, which is crucial for various neurological functions. The study also explores the implications of iron delivery in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Restless Legs Syndrome, where iron levels can be either too low or too high. By identifying these regulatory mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for neurological disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with neurological conditions, particularly those affected by Alzheimer's disease or related disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to iron metabolism or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurological disorders related to iron dysregulation, such as Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding iron metabolism in the brain, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Connor, James Robert — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Connor, James Robert
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 below.