Investigating how heparan sulfate affects neurexin1 in brain synapse development
Official title: The role of heparan sulfate modification on neurexin1 in synapse development
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10989945 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes to a brain protein called neurexin1 might affect the way brain connections work, which could help us understand more about conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $355,524 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH130476-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989945 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic function or those without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of heparan sulfate modifications on neurexin1, a key protein involved in the formation and function of synapses in the brain. By using genetically modified mouse models, the study aims to understand how these modifications influence presynaptic development and overall synaptic function. The researchers will analyze the effects of deleting specific neurexin1 isoforms and their associated heparan sulfate modifications on synaptic structures and functions. This could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic disorders, particularly in conditions like autism spectrum disorder.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving synaptic function in patients with autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting synaptic proteins can lead to significant advancements in understanding and treating neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Peng — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Peng
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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.