How SNAP25 and related proteins affect nerve cell communication in the brain
Role of SNARE Interactions in Central Synapse Function
This project looks at whether SNAP25 gene changes disrupt how brain cells talk to each other in ways that could underlie early childhood brain disorders such as autism.
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 ID | NIH-11307157 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my point of view, the team uses mice engineered with SNAP25 gene variants and lab-grown human neurons to see how those changes alter synapse function. They measure electrical signals and watch single synapses with advanced imaging, electron microscopy, and super-resolution methods. They also test whether common neurotherapeutic drugs work differently when spontaneous neurotransmitter release is changed. The goal is to link these molecular changes to altered plasticity and treatment response so better therapies can be found.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most likely to be relevant are children (or their families) with early-onset neurodevelopmental disorders who carry known SNAP25 or other SNARE gene variants.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not linked to SNAP25 or SNARE gene changes, or whose symptoms come from unrelated causes, are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could explain why some children with SNAP25-related disorders do not respond to current treatments and point to more targeted therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies have shown SNAP25 variants can change synaptic signaling, but translating those findings into effective patient treatments remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kavalali, Ege T — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Kavalali, Ege T
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.