Exploring how maternal folic acid affects brain development in autism
Official title: Unraveling the interplay between the transcriptional co-regulator Cited2 and maternal folic acid in the regulation of neocortical development
Funded at Syracuse University · NIH-10870441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Cited2 and the amount of folic acid a mother gets during pregnancy can affect the brain development of her baby, especially in areas linked to thinking and learning, which could help us understand more about conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $224,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD115073-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10870441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are expectant mothers, particularly those with a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those without a family history of neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between a specific protein called Cited2 and maternal folic acid in the development of the neocortex, the brain region crucial for cognitive functions. It aims to understand how genetic and environmental factors, particularly maternal nutrition, influence the growth and connections of neurons, which are often disrupted in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The study will use genetically modified mice to observe how changes in Cited2 affect brain development and behavior, potentially providing insights into how maternal diet can impact children's neurological health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations for pregnant women to support healthy brain development in their children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that maternal folic acid can prevent certain neural defects, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into brain development.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macdonald, Jessica L. — Syracuse University
- Study coordinator: Macdonald, Jessica L.
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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.