Investigating genes linked to autism using zebrafish models
Official title: Parallel assessment of neurodevelopment genes implicated in autism using zebrafish
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10770567 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect brain growth in people with autism, especially those with a condition called disproportionate megalencephaly, by using zebrafish to see how changes in these genes impact brain development, which could help us find new ways to understand and treat autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,729 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS128811-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10770567 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, especially those exhibiting disproportionate megalencephaly.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or those not exhibiting accelerated brain growth may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly in cases where patients experience accelerated brain growth, known as disproportionate megalencephaly (DM). By using zebrafish, which are ideal for studying developmental processes due to their transparent embryos and rapid growth, the researchers will knock out specific candidate genes to observe how these changes affect brain cell development. This approach aims to identify new genetic mutations that may contribute to the severity of ASD symptoms, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets. The findings could lead to a better understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying ASD and inform future treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for individuals with autism, particularly those with severe symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have explored genetic factors in autism, this approach using zebrafish for systematic gene knockout is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dennis, Megan Y — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Dennis, Megan Y
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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.