Investigating how a protein linked to neurodevelopmental disorders affects neuron function.
Official title: The Roles of the Neurodevelopmental Disease-linked Ube3a Protein in Golgi Satellite Function
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11017016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein linked to autism affects tiny structures in brain cells that help with communication between nerve cells, hoping to find new ways to understand and treat autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $173,636 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH134184-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those with unrelated conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the Ube3a protein, which is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders, in the functioning of specialized cellular structures called Golgi satellites. These satellites are crucial for the proper processing of proteins in neurons, particularly at synapses where communication between nerve cells occurs. By examining how neuronal activity influences the formation and positioning of these satellites, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better understanding and treatment of ASD. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the cellular processes underlying their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for autism spectrum disorder and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the cellular mechanisms involved in neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Green, William — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Green, William
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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.