Exploring how a gene affects fear learning and memory.
Official title: Understanding Foxp2-Mediated Molecular Signaling in Fear Learning
Funded at Mclean Hospital · NIH-11070339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called Foxp2 affects how adults with PTSD learn to feel fear, using mice to explore the brain's inner workings, which could help us find better ways to treat PTSD in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $193,993 |
| NIH project number | 5K08MH130802-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) who are interested in understanding the biological basis of their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or related fear learning disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Foxp2 gene in fear learning, particularly in adults with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). By studying adult mice, the researchers aim to understand how Foxp2 interacts with the Wnt signaling pathway in the amygdala, a brain region crucial for fear responses. The study will involve analyzing gene expression changes during fear learning and using advanced techniques like single nuclei sequencing to gain insights into the molecular mechanisms at play. This could lead to a better understanding of fear-related behaviors and potential new treatments for PTSD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatments for PTSD by targeting specific molecular pathways involved in fear learning.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of Foxp2 in language disorders is established, its involvement in fear learning is less understood, making this research a novel exploration in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Mclean Hospital
Belmont, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ponomareva, Olga Y — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ponomareva, Olga Y
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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.