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-10991779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect autism, especially in kids with bigger brains, by using zebrafish to see how changes in these genes can impact brain development, which could help us find new ways to support those with 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) | $94,826 |
| NIH project number | 3R21NS128811-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly 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 genes due to their rapid growth and transparency, researchers will knock out specific candidate genes to observe changes in brain cell types. This approach aims to identify new genetic mutations that could contribute to the severity of ASD symptoms, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets. The study will involve comparing the genetic alterations in zebrafish to those found in human patients with ASD-DM.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for individuals with autism who have severe cognitive and developmental challenges.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have successfully identified genetic factors in autism, this approach using zebrafish to systematically investigate a broader range of candidate genes is relatively novel.
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.