Il1rapl2’s role in shaping cortical wiring in autism
Official title: Synaptic and circuit functions of the ASD risk gene Il1rapl2 in cortical wiring
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11686533 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project studies how a brain gene linked to autism helps form the connections in deep-layer neurons to understand why circuits develop differently in ASD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | October 5, 2026 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $111,541 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM148302-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11686533 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals whose condition is ASD or related neurodevelopmental disorders and who may later be eligible for related circuit-level interventions or trials.
✕Less likely to help
This research is basic science and does not involve testing a treatment in people at this time, so immediate patient benefit is indirect.
What this research studies
Researchers will explore how Il1rapl2, a gene associated with autism, influences synapse formation and connectivity in specific deep-layer neurons. The study combines biology tools and brain circuit analyses to see how this gene affects the wiring of cortical networks. By focusing on apical dendrites and long-range inputs, the project aims to reveal mechanisms that could underlie ASD-related brain differences. The work is grounded in preliminary data showing Il1rapl2’s presence at key synapses and its potential partners in the circuit. Results could illuminate targets for therapies that modify circuit development in autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding Il1rapl2’s role could point to new ways to support healthier brain wiring in people with ASD.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggest Il1rapl2 localizes to synapses and influences synapse density, supporting the feasibility of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schmidt, Ewoud — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Schmidt, Ewoud
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.