Effects of a specific gene disruption on dopamine function and behavior
Official title: Impact of Grin2b/GluN2B disruption on dopaminergic function and related behavior
Funded at New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10989068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene related to autism might affect brain chemicals and behaviors, using mice to help us understand more about autism and find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $206,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH135589-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989068 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those with genetic variations affecting the GRIN2B gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those not carrying relevant genetic variations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the disruption of the GRIN2B gene, which is linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affects dopamine function and related behaviors. Using genetic mouse models, the study will explore the role of NMDA-GluN2B receptors in modulating dopamine neuron activity and how this impacts behaviors associated with ASD. The researchers will employ a conditional genetic strategy to observe changes in dopamine release and behavior when GluN2B is disrupted. This approach aims to provide insights into the biological mechanisms underlying ASD and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments targeting dopamine function in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of dopamine in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Veenstra-Vanderweele, Jeremy — New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
- Study coordinator: Veenstra-Vanderweele, Jeremy
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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.