How the Dyrk1a gene in the hippocampus affects social understanding
Hippocampal synaptic and circuit mechanisms mediating Dyrk1a functions in social cognition
This project explores whether restoring a brain pathway tied to the Dyrk1a gene can improve social thinking for people with autism linked to Dyrk1a changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086649 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying a gene called Dyrk1a that is linked to some forms of autism and social-cognition difficulties. They will map how Dyrk1a affects nerve connections and circuits in the hippocampus, focusing on a partner protein called Ablim3. Using lab and animal experiments, the team will test whether changing that pathway in adulthood can reverse social-recognition problems caused by developmental Dyrk1a loss. The aim is to identify cell-type and circuit-specific targets that could be used to develop future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for any future human studies would be people with autism who have known Dyrk1a loss-of-function mutations or syndromic ASD linked to Dyrk1a.
Not a fit: People with autism whose condition is not related to Dyrk1a mutations, or whose symptoms arise from other causes, may not receive direct benefit from findings focused on this gene.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatment targets to improve social recognition in people with Dyrk1a-related autism.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical animal studies have linked Dyrk1a to social behavior and circuit changes, but there are currently no approved human treatments targeting this pathway.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sahay, Amar — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sahay, Amar
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.