How neurons and astrocytes use Sonic Hedgehog to build brain circuits
Sonic Hedgehog Dependent Neuron-Astrocyte Crosstalk During Cortical Circuit Assembly
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11323582
Learning how a protein called Sonic Hedgehog helps nerve cells and support cells (astrocytes) connect as the brain develops, which could matter for autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11323582 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses genetic mouse models and advanced microscopy to watch how neurons and astrocytes communicate during the formation of cortical brain circuits. Researchers manipulate Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling in astrocytes to see how that changes astrocyte behavior and the way synapses form. High-resolution light and electron microscopy will map the physical interactions between these cell types during development. The goal is to build a cellular and molecular picture of how SHH delivery and response shape functional neural circuits relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant funds basic lab work in mice and does not enroll patients, so people with autism are not being recruited to participate directly.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate treatments or clinical care will not benefit directly from this project because it is preclinical, laboratory-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new biological mechanisms or targets that guide future therapies or diagnostics for autism and related developmental brain disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and developmental studies show SHH influences brain development, but translating these findings to autism-related treatments remains exploratory.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HARWELL, COREY C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: HARWELL, COREY C
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