How an epigenetic switch (PHF21B) affects social memory and brain connections
Dissecting the roles of an epigenetic regulator of genes involved in synaptic plasticity and social cognition.
This research looks at how losing a protein called PHF21B changes gene control in the brain and may cause social memory problems relevant to autism, ADHD, or after brain injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11262873 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying a protein called PHF21B that helps control which genes are turned on in brain cells. They use mice lacking PHF21B and behavioral tests of social memory alongside lab studies of neurons to see how synapses and gene expression change. The team measures epigenetic marks (like H3K36me3), RNA and protein changes, and the effects on synaptic plasticity. They plan experiments to reverse those molecular changes to see if social memory can be restored in their models.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with social cognitive difficulties—such as individuals with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or survivors of traumatic brain injury or stroke—are the populations most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients whose symptoms arise from unrelated structural brain damage, non-epigenetic causes, or conditions not involving social memory are less likely to benefit directly from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets or biomarkers for therapies to improve social cognition in autism, ADHD, and after traumatic brain injury or stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Epigenetic-targeting approaches have shown promise in animal models for some brain disorders, but PHF21B-specific work is novel and remains at the preclinical stage.
Where this research is happening
Syracuse, United States
- Upstate Medical University — Syracuse, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, Ma-Li — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Wong, Ma-Li
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.