Investigating the causes of abnormal myelination linked to chromosome 18q23.
Official title: Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Chromosome 18q23 Dysmyelination
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10873776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of chromosome 18q23 influences the growth of myelin in the brain, which is important for healthy nerve function, and it aims to find out if problems with myelin are caused by one gene or several, using mice and human cells to help discover new treatments for myelination issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | June 23, 2023 |
| Project end | May 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $116,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R03HD108551-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or those experiencing cognitive decline linked to chromosome 18q23 abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic abnormalities related to chromosome 18q23 or those with unrelated cognitive issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific region of chromosome 18q23 affects the development of myelin in the brain, which is crucial for proper nerve function. Researchers will explore whether the failure of myelin development is due to a single gene or a combination of genes in this region. By using both mouse models and human cells, they aim to identify the cellular impacts of these genetic defects. The ultimate goal is to develop new drug screening methods to find treatments that can correct or improve myelination issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for conditions associated with abnormal myelination, such as autism and age-related cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding myelination processes, but this specific approach targeting chromosome 18q23 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
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University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cody, Jannine de Mars — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Cody, Jannine de Mars
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.