Understanding how the vagus nerve connects to organs during development
Developmental mechanisms specifying vagal innervation of organ targets
This study is looking at how the vagus nerve, which helps control important functions like heart rate and digestion, develops and connects to organs, using zebrafish embryos to learn more about how this process works, which could help us understand nerve-related health issues better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10935959 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the developmental processes that guide the vagus nerve, a critical nerve that connects the brain to various organs, including the heart and digestive system. Using zebrafish embryos as a model, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that dictate how the vagus nerve establishes connections with these organs. By examining the organization of nerve fibers and their targets, the research seeks to provide insights into how the nervous system regulates vital functions such as heart rate and digestion. This could lead to a better understanding of conditions related to nerve function and organ regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to vagus nerve dysfunction or those interested in the biological mechanisms of organ regulation.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to vagus nerve function or those not experiencing any organ regulation issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of nerve-related disorders and improve treatments for conditions affecting organ function.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach using zebrafish embryos is relatively novel, similar studies have successfully elucidated nerve development and function in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seroka, Austin — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Seroka, Austin
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.