How autism genetic risk affects sensory processing in the brain
Official title: Impact of autism genetic risk on cortical sensorimotor dynamics
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10864803 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes linked to autism might affect how the brain processes sensory information and learns, using mice to help us understand the challenges people with autism face in these areas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32MH130163-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10864803 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those with known genetic risk factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those whose conditions are unrelated to the genetic factors being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic risks associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) influence sensory processing and learning in the brain. Using a mouse model, the study will examine the effects of specific ASD risk genes on cortical dynamics and sensory responses. By monitoring calcium activity in the brain during sensory stimulation, researchers aim to understand the connection between sensory processing deficits and cognitive impairments in ASD. The findings could provide insights into how these genetic factors contribute to learning challenges in individuals with autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for learning difficulties in patients with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic influences on sensory processing in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golovin, Randall M. — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Golovin, Randall M.
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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.