Investigating a unique DNA sequence that may enhance human brain development
Official title: An Ancient Neural Enhancer that has Rapidly Evolved in the Human Lineage
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11166463 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special piece of ancient DNA that might help us understand how our brains develop and could be linked to traits like intelligence and creativity, which could eventually help people with conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $706,671 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137503-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11166463 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or those interested in the genetic basis of cognitive traits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cognitive development or genetic factors may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a specific ancient DNA sequence known as HAR123, which has evolved rapidly in humans and may play a crucial role in brain development. By examining how HAR123 influences the generation of neural progenitor cells, the research aims to uncover its potential impact on human-specific traits such as intelligence and creativity. The approach involves analyzing the function of HAR123 in a laboratory setting, using advanced genetic and biological techniques to understand its role in gene expression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the genetic underpinnings of conditions like autism spectrum disorder and other cognitive traits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the genetic factors influencing cognitive development and disorders, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific investigation of HAR123 is novel, previous research has shown success in understanding the role of genetic enhancers in brain development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkinson, Miles Frome — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Wilkinson, Miles Frome
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Improved MRI guidance for pediatric heart catheterization using autonomous multi-beat image synthesis
Aiming to make MRI-guided pediatric heart catheterizations safer and more reliable by using smart, multi-beat data fusion to produce clearer real-time MRI images.
-
Adapting a combination approach to reduce heavy drinking and boost HIV care and prevention among young men
A pilot project tests a proven program that helps young men cut down on heavy drinking and improves HIV treatment and prevention outcomes.
-
How specific anti-NMDAR1 antibodies in the blood may affect memory and brain protection
This research is exploring whether natural or abnormal anti-NMDAR1 antibodies in the blood influence memory, behavior, and brain protection in humans.
-
Screening and treatment of Chlamydia infection in pregnancy to help prevent preterm birth
This grant studies whether screening pregnant people for Chlamydia trachomatis and treating those who are positive can reduce the risk of preterm birth.
-
Pharmacometrics Core at UC San Diego
A pharmacometrics core is funded to support researchers in analyzing drug data to improve how medicines work for patients.
-
Milk Analytics Core for Precision Dairy Research
A core facility at UC San Diego will provide specialized milk analysis services to support research on dairy biology and human health.
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.