Foxp2 signals that shape fear learning in the brain
Official title: Understanding Foxp2-Mediated Molecular Signaling in Fear Learning
Funded at Mclean Hospital · NIH-11321248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A scientist at a hospital is studying how a brain gene called Foxp2 affects fear learning in adult mice, with potential implications for PTSD treatments.
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 | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $193,993 |
| NIH project number | 5K08MH130802-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11321248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with PTSD or related fear-learning differences in the future translational path, but currently this study is in animal models.
✕Less likely to help
This study does not involve direct patient participation.
What this research studies
This project looks at how Foxp2 in the amygdala’s intercalated cells influences fear responses and fear extinction in adult mice. The research uses time-course gene testing, RNAscope visualization, and single-nucleus sequencing to map how Foxp2 and the Wnt signaling pathway interact during fear learning. By understanding these molecular signals, the work aims to identify new avenues for personalized approaches to PTSD in people in the future.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could inform new targets for PTSD therapies by linking a brain gene to fear processing.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests roles for Foxp2 in brain circuits, but its specific involvement in fear learning is still being explored.
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.