How mast cells affect brain development in autism
The impact of proliferating mast cells in the developing brain
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called mast cells might affect brain development in kids with autism, especially how they react to things in the environment and whether they help or hurt brain cells during important growth stages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11066552 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mast cells, a type of immune cell, in the developing brain, particularly in relation to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The study aims to understand how these cells respond to environmental triggers and their potential impact on brain development through inflammatory signaling. By examining the presence and function of mast cells in the brain during critical developmental stages, the research seeks to uncover their dual roles in supporting or damaging brain cells. This could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying autism and other related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to autism or those who are adults may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders by targeting mast cell activity.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of immune cells in neurodevelopment is an emerging field, this specific focus on mast cells in relation to autism is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blanchard, Alexa Ciesinski — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Blanchard, Alexa Ciesinski
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.