Brain cells that link different brain regions and shape brain activity
Long-range inhibitory neuron circuit organization and cortical function
This project aims to learn how a special kind of brain cell coordinates brain rhythms that matter for people with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11285365 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are focusing on a rare type of inhibitory neuron that sends connections across different parts of the cortex. Using animal models, they will map where these cells connect, record brain rhythms (EEG/LFP), and test how the cells influence cortical states such as sleep and wakefulness. The team will manipulate these cells to see how they change communication between brain areas and behaviors related to arousal and information processing. Because these cells are conserved across species and have widespread axonal branches, the work could help explain circuit-level changes linked to autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism and their families who are interested in supporting basic research, tissue donation, or future related clinical studies would be relevant contacts.
Not a fit: Patients looking for immediate treatments should not expect direct clinical benefits because this is preclinical, animal-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal how specific inhibitory cells shape brain rhythms and point toward new, targeted ways to address circuit-level problems in autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have identified these long-range inhibitory neurons and shown they can influence cortical activity, but applying that knowledge to human therapies remains novel.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Batista-Brito, Renata — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Batista-Brito, Renata
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.