Exploring how the ASH1L gene affects boys and girls differently in neuropsychiatric disorders
Official title: Uncovering sex-specific differences in ASH1L-disease
Funded at Brown University · NIH-11106016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the ASH1L gene affects boys and girls differently when they have conditions like autism and ADHD, with the hope of finding better treatments that fit each child's needs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $162,852 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH136643-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11106016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, particularly those with known mutations in the ASH1L gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropsychiatric disorders or those not carrying mutations in the ASH1L gene may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in how the ASH1L gene impacts boys and girls with neuropsychiatric disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). By combining detailed clinical assessments with advanced stem cell studies, the research aims to uncover the underlying biological mechanisms that contribute to these sex-specific differences. The goal is to better understand why these disorders manifest differently in males and females, which could lead to more tailored and effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for neuropsychiatric disorders based on sex-specific needs.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into sex-specific differences in neuropsychiatric disorders, this particular approach focusing on the ASH1L gene is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lizarraga, Sofia Beatriz — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Lizarraga, Sofia Beatriz
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.