Understanding how tiny RNA molecules affect brain cell connections
Official title: microRNA-Regulated Mechanisms Essential for Structural Plasticity of Drosophila Glutamatergic Synapses
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-10935973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny molecules in the brain that help change how brain cells connect with each other when they get stimulated, which could help us understand memory and brain disorders better, and maybe even lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $511,701 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135403-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10935973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological or psychiatric disorders that may be linked to synaptic dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely structural brain abnormalities unrelated to synaptic plasticity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of small RNA molecules, known as microRNAs, in the structural changes of brain cell connections, particularly in response to stimulation. By using advanced genetic tools and analysis techniques, the study aims to uncover how these microRNAs regulate the expression of specific proteins that are crucial for synapse remodeling. This understanding could provide insights into the mechanisms behind memory formation and various neurological disorders, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurological and psychiatric disorders by enhancing our understanding of synapse plasticity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting microRNAs can influence synaptic function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Vactor, David L. — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Van Vactor, David L.
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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.