Investigating how a specific protein complex affects brain development and autism.
Official title: The BAF chromatin remodeling complex in experience-induced neuronal gene transcription and synapse maturation; implications for autism spectrum disorders
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11047359 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a group of proteins called the BAF complex affects brain development and could be linked to autism, with the hope that understanding these connections will help create better treatments for people with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $237,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH139062-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047359 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders unrelated to the BAF complex may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Brahma Associated Factor (BAF) chromatin remodeling complex in brain development, particularly in relation to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The study aims to explore how mutations in genes associated with this complex may impact neuronal gene transcription and synapse maturation. By examining the interactions of specific proteins within the BAF complex, the research seeks to uncover fundamental biological processes that could lead to new insights into neurodevelopmental disorders. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could inform future therapeutic strategies for ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential treatments for autism spectrum disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin remodeling complexes in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saha, Ramendra N — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Saha, Ramendra N
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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.