How the timing of brain connections affects behavior and development
Official title: Impact of Species-Specific Synaptic Maturation Timing on Cortical Circuit and Behavioral Development
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10899947 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the timing of brain connections developing can affect behavior and development, especially in people with conditions like autism, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve treatment options for these neurodevelopmental disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $50,937 |
| NIH project number | 1F30MH136683-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899947 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuropsychiatric disorders not related to synaptic maturation or those under 21 years old may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the timing of synaptic maturation in the human brain and its impact on behavior and development, particularly in relation to neuropsychiatric conditions like autism. By examining specific genes that influence synapse formation, the study aims to understand how variations in this timing can lead to differences in cognitive abilities and behavioral outcomes. The research utilizes advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate these genes in animal models, providing insights that could translate to human health. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders by targeting the mechanisms of synaptic maturation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic development and its implications for neuropsychiatric disorders, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Recupero, Aleksandra — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Recupero, Aleksandra
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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.