How brain 'identity' proteins help neurons wire up and relate to autism
The role of the clustered protocadherins in neural circuit formation and implications for neurodevelopmental disorders
Researchers are looking at whether changes in a family of brain cell-surface proteins that help neurons recognize each other can lead to wiring differences that relate to autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117016 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses laboratory and animal models to learn how the clustered protocadherin proteins give each neuron a unique identity and guide proper wiring in the brain. Scientists alter or remove specific protocadherin genes in mice and then examine how neuron branches, synapses, and serotonin/dopamine wiring are changed. They combine genetic tools, imaging, and behavioral tests to link molecular changes to wiring defects and altered behaviors. The team aims to connect these basic findings to mechanisms that may underlie some forms of autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism spectrum disorder and their families who are interested in the biological causes of ASD would be the most relevant audience for this research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatments or symptom relief are unlikely to benefit directly, because the project is laboratory-based and focused on basic mechanisms in animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal biological mechanisms behind autism-related wiring problems and point to new targets for future diagnostics or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse studies, including work from this team, showed that deleting certain protocadherin genes disrupts serotonergic neuron wiring and changes behavior, so this research builds on promising preclinical evidence.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maniatis, Thomas P — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Maniatis, Thomas P
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.