Investigating genetic and brain changes in autism at the single-cell level

Analysis of epigenetic and neuronal circuit changes in autism on the single-cell level

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10889020

This study is looking at how changes in genes and their activity affect brain development in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), using advanced techniques to find out what’s happening in their brains, which could help us understand more about the condition and its causes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889020 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how genetic and epigenetic changes affect brain development in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and ATAC sequencing, the study aims to identify specific cellular pathways and neuronal circuits that are altered in ASD. This detailed analysis will help uncover the molecular mechanisms behind the disorder, potentially leading to new insights into its causes and effects. The research involves examining brain tissue from individuals with ASD to pinpoint the exact changes at a cellular level.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using single-cell genomics has shown promise in understanding complex neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autism Spectrum Disorder patientAutistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.