Could the mGlu7 brain receptor change learning and attention in neurofibromatosis type 1?
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 as a potential genetic modifier of cognitive deficits in neurofibromatosis
Looks at whether differences in the mGlu7 brain receptor relate to learning and attention problems in people with neurofibromatosis type 1.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306074 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of research led at Vanderbilt that combines genetic data from medical records with laboratory work to understand a brain receptor called mGlu7 (GRM7). Investigators are following up on a genetic signal that links a common GRM7 variant to NF1 and are using animal and cellular experiments to see how GRM7 changes affect brain circuits for learning and attention. The team aims to connect human genetic findings to biological mechanisms that might explain why some people with NF1 have learning disabilities or ADHD. Results could help guide future tests or treatments targeting this receptor.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurofibromatosis type 1, especially children with learning or attention difficulties and available genetic or medical record data, would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without NF1 or whose cognitive problems are caused by other conditions or who do not carry relevant GRM7 variants may not benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify people with NF1 who are at higher risk for learning or attention problems and point to new targets for therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies show that loss of Grm7 impairs learning and attention and a database (PheWAS) has linked a GRM7 variant to NF1, but applying this specifically to cognitive problems in NF1 is a novel step.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Niswender, Colleen M — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Niswender, Colleen M
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.