Investigating how brain processes affect mental health disorders like autism
Official title: Presynaptic Homeostatic Plasticity and Mental Health
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11045912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain keeps itself balanced and healthy, especially in people with autism and intellectual disabilities, to find new ways to help manage these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | December 18, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $692,043 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH134827-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045912 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities, particularly those aged 21 and older.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mental health disorders not related to autism or intellectual disabilities may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the concept of homeostatic plasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to stabilize its functions despite genetic or environmental challenges. By examining how this process relates to mental health disorders such as autism and intellectual disability, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms involved. The research will analyze neurotransmitter release regulation in the brain, focusing on how it maintains a balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals, which is crucial for mental health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve mental health outcomes for individuals with autism and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of homeostatic plasticity in mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Graeme W — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Davis, Graeme W
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
An integrated mobile health program to reduce SAVA and mental health problems among female sex workers in Kenya
A new mobile health program aims to help female sex workers in Kenya avoid substance abuse, violence, HIV, and depression by delivering group therapy, online resources, and a peer discussion space.
-
Adolescent girls in Uganda: a long-term look at how money empowerment and family support affect HIV prevention, care, and mental health
A long-term study in rural Uganda will test whether an intervention that combines economic empowerment and family strengthening can help HIV-negative and HIV-affected adolescent girls move safely into young adulthood.
-
Long-term HIV prevention and mental health support for adolescent girls and young women in Uganda
A long-term program in rural Uganda tests if combining economic support and family strengthening helps teenage girls stay HIV-free and improve mental health as they grow into young adults.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Maternal mental health help to protect kids’ breathing health
A mother-focused mental health program is tested to see if improving moms’ mood can also support better breathing and fewer asthma symptoms in children.
-
SNEngage: How Social Networks and Supports Shape Mental Health Care for Black and Latino Individuals with Serious Mental Illness
A long-term study following Black and Latino individuals with serious mental illness to learn how their social networks affect engagement with mental health services and overall well-being.
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.