How leftover cell bits might influence brain development in autism
Characterization of midbody remnant mediated cell fate decisions in autism
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11251768
Researchers will look at whether tiny leftover pieces from dividing brain cells change how those cells develop in people with autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11251768 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at tiny bits left over when brain cells divide—called midbody remnants—and whether they carry messages that change how new brain cells grow in people with autism. Researchers will use human brain tissue and lab-grown 3D cell models to track which genes are inside these midbody remnants and how they move between cells. They will combine molecular analyses with high-resolution imaging to see if midbody remnants build up in parts of the developing cortex linked to autism. The work is conducted at the University of Wisconsin–Madison using advanced cell modeling and gene-tracking tools.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with autism or family members who can donate biological samples (such as blood, skin cells, or other available tissues) or take part in future related sample-collection efforts would be most relevant.
Not a fit: This research is basic and will not provide direct clinical treatments or immediate medical benefits to participants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If confirmed, this could reveal early biological signals in autism that point to new targets for future diagnostics or treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has connected abnormal neural progenitor division to autism, but the idea that midbody remnants transfer disease-related genetic messages is largely new and untested.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WOLTER, JUSTIN — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: WOLTER, JUSTIN
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