How a key cellular switch (PKA) controls brain signaling linked to autism
Lessons Learned from PKA: Assembly of Dynamic Macromolecular Switches
Researchers are mapping how the PKA molecular switch works in brain cells to better understand changes linked to autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251624 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists will examine how PKA proteins assemble and act as molecular switches inside brain cells, focusing on the RIIβ form that is common in neurons. They will use biochemical tests, imaging, cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and computer simulations to visualize PKA structures and movements. The project brings together teams across disciplines to connect molecular shapes and locations with cellular behavior. The goal is to relate these basic molecular findings to changes that may occur in autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autistic disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions would be most directly relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Anyone seeking immediate changes in their clinical care should not expect direct or short-term benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal mechanisms that point to new biomarkers or targets for future autism treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier structural work on PKA has yielded important insights and a recent cryoEM structure of the full holoenzyme shows promise, but applying those findings to autism remains exploratory.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Susan S. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Susan S.
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 below.