Understanding how zebrafish heal their spinal cords
Potency and contribution of zebrafish progenitors during innate spinal cord repair
This study looks at how zebrafish can heal their spinal cords after an injury, hoping to learn from their unique healing abilities to find new ways to help people with spinal cord injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11049688 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique ability of zebrafish to regenerate their spinal cords after injury, focusing on the progenitor cells that contribute to this healing process. By studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in zebrafish spinal cord repair, the research aims to uncover how these processes differ from those in mammals, which struggle with spinal cord injuries. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating spinal cord injuries in humans by leveraging insights gained from zebrafish regeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and are seeking new therapeutic options.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries that are not amenable to regenerative therapies or those with chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance spinal cord repair in humans, potentially restoring lost sensory and motor functions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding spinal cord regeneration in zebrafish, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mokalled, Mayssa H. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Mokalled, Mayssa H.
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.