Investigating how NR2E1 mutations affect brain cell development and behavior
Official title: Effects of the NR2E1 mutation on cellular and molecular determinants of neurogenesis
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11046496 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the NR2E1 gene might affect brain cell development and lead to challenges like anxiety and aggression in people with intellectual disabilities, so we can better understand how these genetic differences impact their behavior and thinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | January 17, 2024 |
| Project end | October 16, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS136011-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046496 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with intellectual disabilities and behavioral issues who may have NR2E1 genetic variants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any known genetic mutations related to NR2E1 or those with different underlying causes for their cognitive or behavioral issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the NR2E1 gene in the development of brain cells, specifically focusing on neurogenesis, which is the process by which neural stem cells become mature neurons. The study aims to understand how mutations in the NR2E1 gene may lead to cognitive impairments and behavioral issues, such as aggression and anxiety, in patients. By analyzing genetic variants in individuals with intellectual disabilities and behavioral problems, the research seeks to establish a link between these mutations and their effects on brain function. The approach includes screening patient databases and using animal models to further investigate the implications of NR2E1 mutations on neurogenesis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cognitive impairments and behavioral disorders associated with NR2E1 mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic mutations in neurogenesis, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lei, Kevin — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Lei, Kevin
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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.