How the CHD1 gene helps keep brain synapses balanced
Functional Mapping of Chd1-dependent Signaling Network in Synaptic Homeostasis
['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11261210
Researchers will trace how changes in the CHD1 gene alter the balance of connections between nerve cells to better understand autism and related neurodevelopmental conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11261210 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project follows genetic changes found in people with autism and related disorders to see how they affect nerve cell connections called synapses. Scientists will test CHD1 variants found in patients in lab-grown neurons and in model systems to map the signaling partners and pathways that maintain synaptic balance. The team will link molecular changes to shifts in excitation and inhibition that are thought to contribute to autism, ADHD, and intellectual disability. Results may point to molecular steps that can be targeted to restore normal synapse function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism, ADHD, or related neurodevelopmental disorders—particularly those known to carry CHD1 genetic variants or willing to provide DNA or clinical information—would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Individuals without neurodevelopmental diagnoses or without CHD1-related genetic changes are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify molecular targets that lead to therapies to restore synapse balance in autism, ADHD, or related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genetic and lab studies have linked chromatin remodelers and synaptic proteins to neurodevelopmental disorders, but directly connecting CHD1 variants to synaptic homeostasis is a relatively new and still-emerging approach.
Where this research is happening
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES
- GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY — WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, TINGTING — GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WANG, TINGTING
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: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Autistic Disorder