Investigating a gene linked to oxidative stress in autism
Official title: Placental identified NHIP regulating neuronal oxidative stress in autism
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11093480 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new gene called NHIP to see how it affects brain stress and might be linked to autism, using samples from pregnant individuals who have a higher chance of having a child with autism, to help find ways to better understand and possibly treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $677,045 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD112991-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093480 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of autism or those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic predisposition to autism or those who are not affected by autism spectrum disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a newly identified gene, NHIP, influences oxidative stress in the brain and its potential role in autism spectrum disorders. By analyzing placental samples from individuals at high risk for autism, the study aims to uncover the genetic and environmental interactions that contribute to the condition. The researchers will explore how NHIP functions during periods of low oxygen supply to the brain, which may help protect developing neurons. This work could lead to new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying autism and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating autism by targeting oxidative stress pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of oxidative stress in autism, making this approach a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lasalle, Janine M — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Lasalle, Janine M
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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.