NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating how a specific gene affects social behavior differences in adolescents

Official title: Foxp2 genetic control of sex differences in amygdala-driven social behavior

Funded at Children's Research Institute · NIH-10992741 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific gene called Foxp2 affects social behaviors in young mice, which could help us understand more about how genetics influence social and emotional growth during adolescence.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Research Institute
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project startJuly 23, 2024
Project endJuly 22, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$497,652
NIH project number1R21MH135324-01A1
Project IDNIH-10992741 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who exhibit social-emotional challenges or neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD or autism.

Less likely to help

Patients outside the age range of 12-20 or those without social-emotional challenges may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores the role of the Foxp2 gene in the development of social behaviors during adolescence, a critical period for emotional and social growth. By using advanced CRISPR-Cas gene editing techniques, the study will specifically target the Foxp2 gene in the medial amygdala of male and female mice to observe changes in social behavior. The findings aim to enhance our understanding of how genetic factors contribute to social-emotional development and potential disorders in adolescents.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the genetic underpinnings of social behavior, potentially informing interventions for adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic factors in social behavior, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

  • Children's Research Institute
    Washington, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Corbin, Joshua G — Children's Research Institute
  • Study coordinator: Corbin, Joshua G

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.