Investigating how changes in brain connections affect Down syndrome
Official title: Human Embryonic Stem Cell Models for Studying Mechanisms Underlying Changes In Inhibitory Synapses in Down Syndrome
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10950411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes in people with Down syndrome affect brain connections that help control brain activity, with the hope of finding new ways to improve thinking and memory for those with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD116010-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10950411 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those experiencing cognitive challenges or related neurological conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not exhibit cognitive impairments related to the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind changes in inhibitory synapses in individuals with Down syndrome, a condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. By using human embryonic stem cell models, the researchers aim to explore how these genetic factors contribute to neurological issues such as intellectual disability and Alzheimer's disease. The study will investigate the role of specific genes and their impact on the GABAergic system, which is crucial for brain function. Through this approach, the research seeks to uncover potential targets for new treatments that could improve cognitive outcomes for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding GABAergic dysregulation in animal models, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for human conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Gary Daniel — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Smith, Gary Daniel
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Exploring how Down syndrome affects optic nerve health in kids
A study using a mouse model to understand why optic nerve problems are common in children with Down syndrome and how to prevent them.
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Executive Function Enhancement for Young Children with Down Syndrome
A caregiver-guided program for kids with Down syndrome aged up to 11 to strengthen their thinking skills during early childhood.
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Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions
A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.
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Infant Down Syndrome Brain and Behavior Study
A study of infants with Down syndrome to collect brain imaging and developmental data, creating a large, shared resource to understand how autism and other factors relate to development.
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DS-ARC: Smartphone-based cognitive check for people with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer’s
A smartphone-based cognitive test is being developed and tested for people with Down syndrome who may develop Alzheimer’s disease, to track changes quietly in daily life.
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Immune and NGF factors in Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome
This grant studies why people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease by looking at immune signals and nerve growth factor problems.
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.