How glial cells shape brain connections during critical developmental periods
Official title: Glial roles in experience-dependent critical period remodeling
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11061859 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help shape and connect our brain circuits based on what we experience in early life, and it’s especially for those interested in understanding conditions like autism and Fragile X syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $367,084 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS132867-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061859 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals under 21 years old with autism spectrum disorders or related intellectual disabilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are over 21 years old or do not have autism spectrum disorders or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glial cells in pruning brain circuits to enhance connectivity based on sensory experiences during early life. Using Drosophila models, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this process, particularly how these mechanisms may malfunction in conditions like autism spectrum disorders and Fragile X syndrome. The researchers will employ advanced techniques such as CRISPR gene editing and transgenic mapping to explore neuron-to-glia signaling and the function of glia in brain remodeling. By activating specific neurons with timed olfactory cues, they will assess how glial cells contribute to the pruning process during critical developmental windows.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for autism spectrum disorders and related conditions by targeting glial cell functions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting glial mechanisms in this context is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding glial roles in brain development and disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Broadie, Kendal — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Broadie, Kendal
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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.