Investigating how the autism risk gene Foxp1 affects brain development in children
Official title: Cell type-specific regulation of cortical development by the autism risk gene Foxp1
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10901599 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called Foxp1 affects brain development and could help us understand more about autism, using special mice to see how changes in this gene influence brain cells during early growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $39,786 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH136763-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901599 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Foxp1 gene in the development of the brain's cortex, particularly in relation to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). By using a specialized mouse model, the researchers will explore how the loss of Foxp1 affects the migration and fate of neurons during early brain development. The study employs advanced techniques to track neuron movement and identify specific cell types impacted by Foxp1 loss, aiming to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind ASD. This research could lead to better insights into neurodevelopmental disorders and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the biological mechanisms of autism, potentially leading to improved treatments and interventions for affected children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors contributing to autism, making this approach a continuation of established work in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vollmer, Rachael — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Vollmer, Rachael
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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.