Understanding how Wnt signaling helps guide nerve growth and repair
Official title: Characterizing Wnt Signaling Pathways in Axon Guidance
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11081643 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in the body help nerve cells grow and connect properly, which could lead to new ways to help people recover from spinal cord injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $723,422 |
| NIH project number | 5R37NS047484-21 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081643 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced spinal cord injuries or are affected by neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to nerve growth or regeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Wnt signaling pathways in guiding the growth of axons, which are crucial for forming neural circuits. It aims to uncover how these pathways influence the direction of axon growth during development and their potential in promoting recovery after spinal cord injuries. By exploring the interactions between different signaling pathways, the research seeks to provide insights into the mechanisms that govern nerve regeneration and synapse formation. This could lead to new strategies for repairing damaged neural circuits in adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for nerve injuries and neurodegenerative diseases, enhancing recovery and restoring function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding axon guidance and regeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
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University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zou, Yimin — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zou, Yimin
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.