Immune cells in the brain may influence neurodevelopment.
Official title: A unique peri-hippocampal mast cell population drives neurodevelopment
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10989885 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of immune cell called mast cells might influence brain development in young children, especially in relation to conditions like autism, by observing these cells in the brains of rats.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,499 |
| NIH project number | 5F30MH135570-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989885 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to immune system function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific type of immune cell, called mast cells, in the development of the brain, particularly during critical periods such as early childhood. Researchers are studying how these cells interact with brain development processes like neurogenesis and synapse formation, which are crucial for conditions like autism spectrum disorder. By examining the presence and behavior of mast cells in the hippocampus of rats, the study aims to uncover their potential impact on neurodevelopmental diseases. This could lead to a better understanding of how immune responses affect brain health and development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in brain development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maximova, Anna Arkadievna — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Maximova, Anna Arkadievna
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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.