Combining genetics and environment to better understand autism
GEARs Combining advances in Genomics and Environmental science to accelerate Actionable Research and practice in ASD
This project combines genetic and environmental information to find how those factors together affect people with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166501 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of a network that brings together genetic and environmental data from many studies to learn how genes and exposures work together to shape autism traits and health. The team will harmonize large datasets and use new statistical methods to summarize genetics, environments, and outcomes. They will also use 3-D human brain organoids with different autism-linked genetic backgrounds to test how environmental risks change brain-related biology. The network plans to share findings and tools with researchers and the autism community to help turn discoveries into practice.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are people with autism (of any age) who can contribute genetic samples, exposure or health history information, or allow use of their existing study data in a shared research network.
Not a fit: People not willing or able to share genetic or exposure information, or those expecting an immediate clinical treatment, are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this infrastructure-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to specific gene–environment combinations that explain why some people develop certain autism-related differences and suggest ways to prevent or reduce harm.
How similar studies have performed: Large genetics consortia have successfully identified autism-linked genes, but combining genetics and environmental exposure data at this scale and testing effects in organoid models is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Volk, Heather E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Volk, Heather E
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.