How brain support cells shape early-life brain wiring
Glial roles in experience-dependent critical period remodeling
['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY · NIH-11308257
This research looks at how brain support cells called glia reshape neural connections during an early sensitive period to learn more about autism and related developmental conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11308257 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers use fruit fly models to watch how glia prune brain circuits during a brief critical period of sensory-driven development. They apply genetic tools like CRISPR knockouts and transgenic labels to turn genes on or off in glia and to mark single neurons so pruning can be visualized. Timed odor exposure activates specific sensory pathways so the team can measure glial engulfment and phagocytosis tied to experience. The project compares normal flies with models carrying mutations linked to Fragile X, Noonan syndrome, and NBEA-associated autism to find which glial steps break down in disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll people and is done in fruit fly models, so there are no patient eligibility criteria for participation.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment changes or enrollment in a clinical trial will not receive direct benefit because this is laboratory research in flies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify glial molecules or steps that become targets for therapies to correct abnormal brain wiring in autism.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal and cellular studies have shown glia prune synapses and that some autism-linked genes affect pruning, but moving from these findings to human treatments remains early and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY — Nashville, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BROADIE, KENDAL — VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BROADIE, KENDAL
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.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder