How autism-linked genes change learning and habits
Strengths and weaknesses in learning in mice with ASD risk genes
Researchers are looking at whether changes in autism-risk genes make the brain form stronger routine behaviors that could help explain repetitive behaviors in autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11324929 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will use mice that carry the same autism risk genes found in some people, focusing mainly on TSC2 (and TSC1 for comparison). They will measure motor learning on tasks like the rotarod and record activity and synaptic changes in striatal spiny projection neurons that control habit learning. By comparing mutant and typical mice, they will test whether these gene changes make learning more rigid and harder to update. Findings aim to link specific brain-circuit changes to the repetitive, inflexible behaviors seen in some people with autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although this project uses mice and does not enroll people, it is most relevant to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, especially those with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) or known TSC1/TSC2 gene changes.
Not a fit: People without autism or without TSC-related genetic changes are unlikely to benefit directly from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If confirmed, this work could point to brain circuit targets for treatments to reduce rigid, repetitive behaviors in autism.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier mouse studies (for example with neuroligin and Tsc1 models) have shown similar changes in motor learning and striatal synapses, so this work builds on prior animal findings.
Where this research is happening
Berkeley, United States
- University of California Berkeley — Berkeley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilbrecht, Linda E — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Wilbrecht, Linda E
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.