Investigating how tiny structures in the brain affect neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
Official title: Synaptic nanostructure and dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-10991715 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures in the brain that help nerve cells communicate might be linked to conditions like autism and schizophrenia, with the goal of finding new ways to help kids who are affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $465,852 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132918-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991715 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 neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of synaptic nanostructures in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia, which affect over 3% of children globally. Researchers will explore how genetic variations in synaptic proteins impact the way information is transmitted between neurons in the brain. Using advanced techniques such as cryogenic electron tomography, biochemical assays, and cell imaging, the study aims to create a detailed map of these synaptic structures and their functions. By uncovering the mechanisms behind these disorders, the research seeks to pave the way for new treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Qiangjun — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Qiangjun
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding brain signals in autism to identify biologically distinct subtypes
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Clinical Translational Research Center for Neurodevelopmental Disorders
A funded center supports research on neurodevelopmental disorders like Angelman syndrome and autism to better understand causes and improve treatments for children.
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Synaptic nanostructure in neurodevelopmental disorders
This project aims to map the tiny architecture of brain synapses in native cells to understand how connections form and change in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Maternal acetaminophen use in pregnancy and ADHD risk in children
A large study will follow thousands of mother-child pairs to see if taking acetaminophen during pregnancy relates to ADHD in kids.
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GDF11’s role in brain development and autism-related disorders
A new NIH grant tests whether adjusting a growth factor called GDF11 can improve brain function and behaviors in models related to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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.