Investigating brain development in Down syndrome using human stem cells in mice
Understanding Down Syndrome Brain Development Using Human iPSC-Based Mouse Chimeras
This study is exploring how Down syndrome affects brain development by using special cells from people with Down syndrome to create mouse models, helping researchers understand brain cell growth and function, especially the role of certain brain cells, to find ways to improve cognitive abilities in individuals with Down syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862539 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, affects brain development. By using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) derived from Down syndrome patients, researchers aim to create chimeric mouse models that mimic the human brain environment. This approach allows for the examination of how brain cells develop and function in the context of Down syndrome, particularly looking at the role of microglia in brain development and cognitive abilities. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind the cognitive deficits associated with Down syndrome and to identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those interested in contributing to advancements in understanding their condition.
Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have a genetic predisposition related to chromosome 21 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for cognitive impairments in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of hiPSC technology is gaining traction, this specific approach of creating chimeric mouse models for Down syndrome is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Piscataway, United States
- Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. — Piscataway, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Peng — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Peng
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 below.