Exploring genetic factors linked to autism risk
Official title: Identifying tandem repeat expansion-mediated mechanisms of autism-risk genes
Funded at University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-10936999 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of our DNA that don't code for proteins might be linked to autism, hoping to find new genes that could play a role in the condition, which could help us understand autism better and lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $188,393 |
| NIH project number | 1R16GM154702-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10936999 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or those with a family history of ASD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or those not genetically predisposed to ASD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms behind autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by focusing on noncoding regions of DNA, specifically tandem repeat expansions. Researchers aim to identify additional genes that may contribute to ASD risk, particularly those that have been overlooked in previous studies. By analyzing genetic data, the project seeks to uncover how these noncoding sequences affect gene regulation and potentially lead to ASD. This work could provide new insights into the biological underpinnings of autism and inform future therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and identification of genetic factors contributing to autism, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: Previous large-scale genome studies have shown promise in identifying genetic mutations related to ASD, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub
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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.