Investigating how duplicated genes affect brain development and disorders

Human gene duplications in neurodevelopment and disease

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10932392

This study is looking at how extra copies of certain genes might affect brain development and related disorders, using zebrafish to see how these genes influence brain growth and function, which could help us understand more about conditions that impact the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932392 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of duplicated genes in human neurodevelopment and associated disorders. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR, the study aims to assess how these genes influence brain morphology and function during development. Researchers will analyze a comprehensive list of duplicated genes, particularly those expressed during the formation of the brain, using zebrafish models to observe the effects on neural growth and signaling. The goal is to uncover new insights into the genetic factors contributing to neurodevelopmental conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or those with a family history of such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not linked to genetic factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of gene duplications in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.