How a specific protein is regulated in the brain and its link to autism
Official title: Regulation of Topoisomerase 2 Beta by phosphorylation at the C-Terminal domain
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11052630 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein in the brain called Topoisomerase 2 Beta (Top2B) to see how it works when brain cells are active, especially in relation to changes that might be linked to autism and developmental delays, using animal models to help us understand its role better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | March 8, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $69,700 |
| NIH project number | 5R03MH134200-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052630 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorder or neurodevelopmental delays linked to Top2B mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called Topoisomerase 2 Beta (Top2B) in the brain, particularly how it is regulated by phosphorylation in response to neuronal activity. The study focuses on understanding how mutations in Top2B are associated with neurodevelopmental delays and autism. By examining the mechanisms that control Top2B's function, the research aims to uncover how it influences gene expression in neurons, which could have implications for understanding autism spectrum disorders. The approach involves using animal models to study the effects of neuronal stimulation on Top2B regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying autism, potentially informing future treatments or interventions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific regulatory mechanisms of Top2B are being explored in this research, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of topoisomerases in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Delint Ramirez, Ilse — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Delint Ramirez, Ilse
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.