Investigating how genetic variations affect brain cell communication in autism.
Official title: Simultaneous profiling of neuronal synapse activities, proteins, and messenger RNAs at the single-cell level
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11049919 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes affect brain connections in people with autism, using special imaging techniques to see how these connections work, which could help find new ways to support individuals with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | November 30, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,750 |
| NIH project number | 2R01MH112694-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049919 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a condition that impacts cognitive and communication abilities. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe the activities of neuronal synapses at a single-cell level, examining how specific genetic variations influence the development and function of these synapses. The approach combines live-cell imaging with molecular characterization of proteins and messenger RNAs, allowing for a detailed understanding of synaptic behavior in ASD. This could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive and communication skills in individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully utilized similar imaging techniques to study synaptic proteins, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bathe, Mark — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Bathe, Mark
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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.