Using nicotine-sensitive receptors to restore visual brain flexibility
Nicotinic modulation of deep layer somatostatin interneurons for visual critical period plasticity
['FUNDING_R01'] · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · NIH-11302633
This project explores whether activating nicotine-sensitive receptors on specific brain cells can reopen visual brain flexibility to help people with vision loss from brain injury or early-life visual disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11302633 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on special brain cells in deep layers of the visual cortex that respond to nicotine-like signals. Researchers will use laboratory models of vision loss, including ocular dominance approaches, to see if boosting these signals reopens the childhood 'critical period' when the brain can rewire vision. The team will map molecular markers and circuit activity and test targeted ways to change nicotinic signaling. The goal is to identify precise targets that could be developed into treatments to improve vision after brain injury or amblyopia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with vision problems related to acquired brain injury or persistent amblyopia who are interested in therapies aimed at improving cortical visual function would be the most likely candidates for future trials.
Not a fit: Patients whose vision loss is caused primarily by irreversible damage to the eye (retina, optic nerve, or ocular structures) rather than cortical plasticity are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that reopen visual plasticity and improve recovery of vision after brain injury or longstanding amblyopia.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal work, including results from this team, showed that enhancing nicotinic signaling in deep-layer somatostatin interneurons can reopen ocular dominance plasticity, but this approach has not yet been proven in humans.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MORISHITA, HIROFUMI — ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- Study coordinator: MORISHITA, HIROFUMI
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.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury