Investigating human brain cells related to autism and schizophrenia

Brain-region-specific humanized cortical interneuron mice

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11093424

This study is looking at special brain cells that help control how our brains work, and it's for people interested in understanding autism and schizophrenia better; by creating human-like brain cells from stem cells, researchers hope to learn how these cells behave and what might affect them in these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11093424 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of specific brain cells called GABAergic cortical interneurons, which are crucial for regulating brain activity. By creating human-like brain cells from stem cells, the study aims to explore how these cells function in individuals with autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. The researchers will analyze these cells in a lab setting to uncover the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to brain disorders. This approach allows for a more accurate representation of human brain function compared to traditional animal models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders or schizophrenia.

Not a fit: Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to these conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for autism and schizophrenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using human-derived cells to study brain disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.