Investigating how a specific gene affects social behavior in children with autism.
Official title: Neural mechanisms of ASH1L in autism spectrum disorder
Funded at University of South Dakota · NIH-10725205 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene might affect social behavior in kids with autism by exploring how certain brain cells work, using mice that show similar traits, to help find new ways to support children with autism in their social interactions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Vermillion, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $411,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH134106-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10725205 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms behind social deficits in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly related to the ASH1L gene. Researchers will study how the activity of cholinergic neurons in the brain influences social behavior by using advanced techniques on mice that mimic ASD symptoms. By examining these neural circuits, the study aims to uncover the biological underpinnings of social challenges faced by children with ASD, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for social deficits in children with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of cholinergic circuits in social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qin, Luye — University of South Dakota
- Study coordinator: Qin, Luye
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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.