Investigating how gene mutations affect action control in mice
Official title: Exploring corticostriatal dynamics associated with action control deficits in Neurexin1 alpha mutant mice
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10994164 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gene changes in mice affect their ability to control their actions, which could help us understand behaviors linked to conditions like autism and ADHD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 4, 2023 |
| Project end | November 3, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $32,032 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS130989-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994164 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, particularly those with a known genetic predisposition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those not exhibiting action control deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between specific gene mutations and action control deficits in mice, particularly focusing on the Neurexin1 alpha gene. By examining the neural circuits involved in action control, the study aims to understand how disruptions in these pathways contribute to behaviors seen in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD. The researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze the brain activity and behavior of genetically modified mice, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the biological basis of action control deficits, potentially informing new treatment strategies for patients with autism and ADHD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neural mechanisms of action control deficits in similar genetic models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferrigno, Sarah — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Ferrigno, Sarah
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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.