How zinc released at brain connections affects thinking and behavior
The effects of synaptically released zinc on neuronal processing and brain function
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11090724
Researchers aim to learn how tiny amounts of zinc released at neuron connections influence brain signals and behaviors related to autism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11090724 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project studies how zinc released at tiny contact points between brain cells helps them communicate. Scientists use genetically modified mice that lack the zinc transporter ZnT3, along with advanced imaging and molecular tools, to track zinc movement and its effects on synapses. They will examine different brain regions and cell types to see how zinc changes the strength and structure of neural connections. The team also connects their findings to human genetic data that links zinc transporter mutations with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism or related neurodevelopmental conditions—especially those with sensory or cognitive symptoms or known mutations in zinc transporter genes—would be most relevant to related future studies.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain zinc signaling or non-neurological illnesses are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic-science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new biological targets or biomarkers that help guide future treatments or diagnostics for autism and related brain disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown that mice lacking the zinc transporter ZnT3 display cognitive and autism-like behavioral changes, but translating these findings into human treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES
- WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY — MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ANDERSON, CHARLES — WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: ANDERSON, CHARLES
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: Autistic Disorder