How biological sex affects brain development and function
Official title: Biological Sex as a Modulator of Neuronal Development and Function
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11012285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how being male or female affects the nervous system in tiny worms, which could help us understand why men and women might experience brain-related conditions differently, ultimately aiming to improve care for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $487,872 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148349-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012285 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurodevelopmental or neuropsychiatric disorders who are interested in how biological sex may influence their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neurodevelopment or neuropsychiatric disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how biological sex influences the development and functioning of the nervous system, using the model organism C. elegans. By examining the differences in neuronal structure and behavior between male and female worms, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to sex-specific responses in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. The research employs advanced genetic and neuroanatomical techniques to explore these differences at a cellular level, which may provide insights into human conditions. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how sex influences brain health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that consider biological sex in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding sex differences in neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Portman, Douglas S — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Portman, Douglas S
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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.