Investigating the cellular makeup of white matter in the developing human and primate brain
Official title: Cellular resolution multi-omics of white matter tracts in developing human and non-human primate brain for cell atlases
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11083015 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the different types of cells in the brain's white matter to see how they help with thinking and learning, especially in relation to conditions like autism, and it hopes to find ways to improve understanding and treatment for people with developmental brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,331,545 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134809-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083015 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related developmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to brain development or those outside the age range of interest may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the diversity and function of cell types in the white matter of the brain, particularly in relation to cognitive development. By comparing human brains to those of non-human primates, the study aims to profile the gene expression and chromatin states of oligodendrocytes, which are crucial for brain function. The research will involve detailed mapping of white matter tracts across different developmental stages, providing insights into how these changes may relate to conditions like autism spectrum disorder. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to better understanding and treatment of developmental brain disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of brain development and lead to improved interventions for conditions like autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain cell types and their functions, particularly in relation to cognitive disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Konopka, Genevieve — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Konopka, Genevieve
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.