How autism affects male and female brains differently
Sex-specific mechanisms of cortical circuit dysfunction in a mouse ASD model
['FUNDING_R37'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11159860
This project looks at how autism genes might affect the brain differently in males and females, especially focusing on female brain cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159860 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are exploring how a specific autism-risk gene, Pten, impacts brain circuits, particularly in female mice, leading to overactivity. This work also examines how certain signaling pathways, like mGluR5 and ERα, contribute to these sex-specific differences in brain function. By understanding these unique pathways, we aim to uncover why autism symptoms can vary between males and females. This foundational knowledge is crucial for developing more targeted support and treatments in the future.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals with Autistic Disorder in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical intervention or direct participation in a human trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments specifically tailored to address the unique ways autism affects male and female brains.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific sex-specific mechanisms being explored are novel, previous research has shown that autism can manifest differently in males and females.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUBER, KIMBERLY M. — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: HUBER, KIMBERLY M.
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.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder