How steroid hormones affect brain circuits involved in behavior and sensory processing
Official title: Steroid Hormone-Regulated Plasticity of Sensorimotor Integration Circuitry Supports Behavioral Change
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10995613 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how steroid hormones affect the brain's ability to connect what we sense with what we do, using electric fish as a model, and it hopes to shed light on how these processes might relate to challenges faced by people with conditions like autism and schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,623 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS139904-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995613 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related sensory processing issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism or related sensory processing disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how steroid hormones influence the brain circuits that integrate sensory and motor signals, particularly focusing on corollary discharges (CD) in mormyrid electric fish. By examining how these hormones alter neuronal activity, the study aims to understand the mechanisms that allow animals to predict sensory feedback from their own actions. This could provide insights into behavioral and sensory deficits seen in conditions like autism and schizophrenia. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the effects of hormones on neuronal signaling and behavior in a controlled environment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving sensory processing and behavioral outcomes in individuals with autism and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of hormones in sensory processing, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jarzyna, Martin William — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Jarzyna, Martin William
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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.