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-11174974 · 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 what this means for people with autism.
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 | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $3,000 |
| NIH project number | 3F32MH130163-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11174974 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 symptoms are not linked to genetic risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between genetic risk factors for autism and how they influence sensory processing and learning in the brain. Using a mouse model, the study will examine how specific autism risk genes affect the brain's ability to process sensory information, particularly in the cortex. By monitoring calcium dynamics during sensory stimulation, researchers aim to understand the underlying mechanisms that may contribute to learning impairments in individuals with autism. The findings could provide insights into how sensory processing deficits impact cognitive functions in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for learning difficulties associated 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.