How Trio and SynGAP shape connections between human brain cells
Biology of synaptic GEFs and GAPs in human neurons
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11418329
This project looks at whether changing two brain proteins, Trio and SynGAP, alters how lab-grown human neurons and mini-brains grow, move, and connect.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11418329 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers grow human neurons from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and create cerebral organoids that model early brain development. They will use genetic tools (including CRISPR) to change gene dosage and specific protein domains, and they will test small molecules that target GEF/GAP activities. The team will measure neuron growth, migration, morphology, synapse structure, and electrical function to see how these proteins influence circuits. Findings aim to reveal steps in brain development that go wrong in conditions linked to Trio or SYNGAP1 changes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic changes in TRIO or SYNGAP1 or those with related neurodevelopmental conditions (intellectual disability, epilepsy, autism) would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: People whose conditions are unrelated to Trio or SynGAP biology or who need immediate clinical interventions are unlikely to get direct benefit from this lab-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to molecular targets and strategies that eventually lead to treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders involving Trio or SYNGAP1.
How similar studies have performed: Prior patient-cell and animal studies have linked SYNGAP1 and TRIO to brain development and synaptic problems, but pharmacological targeting of their GEF/GAP activities in human-derived neurons is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GEORGE, ALFRED L. — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GEORGE, ALFRED L.
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.