Investigating how autism affects brain circuits differently in males and females
Official title: Sex-specific mechanisms of cortical circuit dysfunction in a mouse ASD model
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11058767 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Autism Spectrum Disorder affects the brains of boys and girls differently, especially focusing on a specific gene that might influence brain cell activity in girls, to help find new ways to support those with ASD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $511,174 |
| NIH project number | 4R37NS114516-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058767 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly females, who may benefit from insights into sex-specific mechanisms of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Autism Spectrum Disorder or those who are male may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the differences in how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts brain function and connectivity in males versus females. It focuses on the effects of the ASD-risk gene Pten on female brain cells, particularly in neocortical pyramidal neurons. By studying mouse models, the research aims to understand the cellular mechanisms that lead to hyperexcitability in female brains, which may contribute to behavioral differences observed in ASD. The approach includes examining signaling pathways and protein synthesis in these neurons to uncover potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, sex-specific treatments for individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding sex differences in neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huber, Kimberly M. — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Huber, Kimberly M.
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.