Exploring how a specific gene affects autism and sleep issues in children
Official title: Investigating the role of NLGN3 in autism spectrum disorder and sleep disruptions
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11069899 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene, called NLGN3, might affect sleep problems in children with autism, hoping to find out more about how genetics can influence both their sleep and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH139286-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11069899 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and experience sleep disruptions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or do not experience sleep disruptions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the NLGN3 gene in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its connection to sleep disruptions. By examining genetic variants associated with both ASD and sleep problems, the study aims to understand how these genetic factors influence neural stability and behavior. The research will involve analyzing the expression patterns of the NLGN3 gene and its variants to determine their impact on synapse formation and maturation. This could lead to insights into the underlying causes of sleep issues in children with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of sleep disruptions in children with autism, improving their overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors associated with autism and sleep disorders, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Townsley, Rebekah Elise — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Townsley, Rebekah Elise
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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.