Epigenetic control of brain development and behavior linked to KMT5B
Official title: Epigenetic regulation of the neuroendocrine axis in brain development and behavior
Funded at Creighton University · NIH-11480071 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study to understand how changes in a gene called KMT5B affect brain development and behaviors related to autism, by looking at how this gene influences IGF signals in the brain and body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Creighton University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2027 |
| Award (this year) | $397,747 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133600-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11480071 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with or at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders linked to KMT5B alterations, or families interested in IGF-linked pathways.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without KMT5B-related neurodevelopmental concerns may not directly benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This project investigates how KMT5B, a gene that changes how DNA is packaged, influences brain development and social/behavioral traits. Using mouse models and brain-specific studies, researchers will map how KMT5B affects local IGF signals in the brain and how changes in circulating IGF from the liver relate to brain development over time. The team aims to connect genetic changes to observable neurodevelopmental outcomes with a focus on autism-related features. The work will combine genetic manipulation, molecular analyses, and behavioral assessments to build a mechanistic picture of KMT5B's role. Overall, it seeks to identify potential points where interventions could modify neurodevelopmental trajectories linked to KMT5B.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal targets to influence brain development and potentially improve outcomes for individuals with KMT5B-related neurodevelopmental conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in similar epigenetic mechanisms and IGF pathways has shown connections to neurodevelopment and autism in model systems, supporting the approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Creighton University
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feser Stessman, Holly Annette — Creighton University
- Study coordinator: Feser Stessman, Holly Annette
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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.