Investigating how SCN2A affects brain development and myelination in autism.
Role of SCN2A in Myelination and Neural Circuit Development in Autism Spectrum Disorder
This study is looking at how a specific gene affects the way the brain develops and processes sounds in people with autism, hoping to find ways to better understand and help with hearing challenges they might face.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914809 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the SCN2A gene in the development of myelination and neural circuits, particularly focusing on auditory processing in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study aims to identify how disruptions in myelination and brain connectivity contribute to sensory processing issues, especially in the auditory system. By examining the excitability of oligodendrocytes, the cells responsible for myelination, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that may lead to improved understanding and treatment of auditory dysfunction in ASD. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biological underpinnings of their condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, particularly those experiencing auditory processing difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or those not experiencing auditory processing issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving auditory processing in individuals with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of myelination in neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Jun Hee — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kim, Jun Hee
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 below.