Ankyrin proteins' roles at brain synapses
Postsynaptic roles of ankyrins
This project looks at how ankyrin proteins (Ankyrin‑G and Ankyrin‑B) influence glutamate synapses and brain circuit activity linked to autism and other neuropsychiatric conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11307170 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use genetically modified reporter and conditional knockout mice together with advanced imaging (two‑photon and super‑resolution microscopy) and calcium imaging to watch how ankyrin proteins shape synapse structure and signaling. They will combine neuroproteomics and bioinformatics to map ankyrin protein partners and molecular pathways such as endocannabinoid signaling and deubiquitination. Behavioral testing in mice will link molecular and circuit changes to functional outcomes, aiming to connect synapse biology to behaviors relevant to neuropsychiatric disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism spectrum disorder or other neuropsychiatric conditions associated with ANK2 or ANK3 gene changes, or those interested in future clinical studies related to ankyrin biology, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate therapeutic benefit likely will not benefit directly because this is preclinical, animal‑model–focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular targets and pathways that eventually lead to new therapies for autism and other disorders driven by synapse dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Prior basic research has begun to link ankyrins to synapse function and behavior, but direct clinical applications remain novel and unproven.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Penzes, Peter — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Penzes, Peter
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.