Improving the understanding of genetic risk factors for autism and related conditions
Official title: Enhancing the Interpretability and Applicability of Polygenic Scores through Multi-Omics Integration and Analysis of Family-Based Studies
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10949273 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect autism and other related conditions, using advanced technology to better understand these connections, so we can find more effective ways to help those who are impacted.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $110,161 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HG013674-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10949273 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0-11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or exhibit related developmental concerns.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have a diagnosis of autism or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the interpretation and application of polygenic scores (PGS) to better understand genetic risk factors associated with autism and other conditions. By integrating multi-omics data and analyzing family-based studies, the project aims to uncover the specific genetic components that contribute to these conditions. The researchers will develop advanced machine learning methods to model the relationships between genetic variants and disease outcomes, providing a clearer picture of how these factors interact. This approach could lead to more accurate assessments of risk and better-targeted interventions for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved genetic risk assessments and personalized treatment strategies for children with autism and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using polygenic scores and multi-omics approaches to understand complex diseases, indicating that this methodology has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Ziqiao — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Ziqiao
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.