Investigating how Neurexin1 affects goal-directed behavior in neuropsychiatric conditions
Official title: Molecular and Circuit Mechanisms of Neurexin1-Mediated Goal-Directed Dysfunction
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11196755 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Neurexin1α in mice to see how it affects decision-making and behavior in people with neuropsychiatric disorders, with the hope of finding new ways to help those who struggle with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $727,248 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136354-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11196755 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly those exhibiting symptoms related to goal-directed behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropsychiatric disorders or those not exhibiting goal-directed dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Neurexin1α, a protein involved in the organization of synapses, in neuropsychiatric disorders that impair goal-directed behavior. By studying mice with mutations in Neurexin1α, researchers will explore how changes in neural circuits affect decision-making and adaptability in response to rewards and uncertainties. The study employs advanced behavioral assessments and electrophysiological techniques to uncover the molecular and circuit-level mechanisms that contribute to these dysfunctions. Insights gained from this research could lead to better therapeutic strategies for individuals affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by goal-directed dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of synaptic proteins in neuropsychiatric conditions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuccillo, Marc V — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Fuccillo, Marc V
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.