Investigating genetic changes in autism spectrum disorder
Official title: Somatic mutations in autism spectrum disorder
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10865573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes that happen after birth might play a role in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, with the hope of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,940 |
| NIH project number | 1K08MH136407-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10865573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by analyzing somatic mutations in children. The project will utilize advanced sequencing techniques to identify genetic variations that occur after conception and may influence the development of ASD. Dr. Alisa Mo, under the mentorship of Dr. Christopher A. Walsh, will develop expertise in human genetics and computational genomics to interpret these mutations. The research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms behind ASD, which could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of autism and lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for affected children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic contributions to autism, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mo, Alisa — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mo, Alisa
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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.