Identifying tandem repeat expansion effects in autism-risk genes
Official title: Identifying tandem repeat expansion-mediated mechanisms of autism-risk genes
Funded at University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-11376887 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study to understand how noncoding tandem repeats may contribute to autism by identifying gene changes that increase risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $188,992 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM154702-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11376887 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with autism or a strong family history of ASD where genetic factors are suspected.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without autism or related genetic concerns are unlikely to benefit directly.
What this research studies
If you or your child has autism, this project looks at genetic factors beyond the usual gene changes to see if repeating DNA patterns contribute to the condition. Researchers will analyze noncoding DNA regions and tandem repeats to uncover new autism-risk genes and test their impact on brain development. The goal is to build a framework that links specific genetic patterns to how autism arises, which could guide future diagnostics and therapies. This work is performed with state-of-the-art genetic analysis and collaboration with experts at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to better understanding of genetic contributors to autism and pave the way for more precise diagnostics and personalized approaches.
How similar studies have gone: Recent large-scale studies suggest noncoding tandem repeats may contribute to ASD, but more rigorous validation is needed—this study aims to strengthen the evidence.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub
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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.