Investigating how human-specific genetic sequences affect brain development and autism.
Official title: Human-specific splicing regulation in neurogenesis and disease
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10947154 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain unique genetic sequences might affect brain development and their connection to autism, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with autism spectrum disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32NS138224-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947154 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would be children aged 0-11 years, particularly those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have autism spectrum disorder may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of unique human genetic sequences in the development of the brain and their potential link to autism. By examining how these sequences influence the regulation of gene splicing, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that may contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders. The research will involve testing specific genetic variations associated with autism to understand their impact on brain function and development. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic approaches for autism spectrum disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into the genetic factors contributing to autism, potentially leading to improved treatments and interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moss, Nicole D — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Moss, Nicole D
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Investigating genetic factors in Lewy body diseases
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene might play a role in conditions like Parkinson's disease and dementia, so that people can better understand how their genetics affect their health and possibly find more tailored treatments.
-
Targeting the PAX3-FOXO1 protein in a deadly childhood cancer
This study is looking at a specific protein that helps a tough childhood cancer called alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, with the goal of finding new ways to treat kids who have this illness.
-
Improving population health by studying reproduction and development
This study is looking at how different things in our environment can impact pregnancy and the health of babies, and it’s for people who are planning to have children or are already parents, as it aims to help improve understanding and outcomes for everyone involved.
-
Modeling axon degeneration in C. elegans to help ALS patients
Researchers are using a tiny worm model to uncover how axons break down, which could point to new ways to help people with ALS and related nerve diseases.
-
Induced Suppression of Platelet Activity in Aneurysmal SAH Management
A new approach tests whether carefully reducing platelet activity can improve outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage.
-
AI-enhanced virtual reality tool to support remote emergency brain surgery training in Tanzania
A new AI-powered virtual reality tool helps non-experts in low-resource areas get real-time remote guidance for emergency traumatic brain injury surgery.
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.