NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating the genetic factors that contribute to autism

Official title: Whole genome dissection of genetic mechanisms that underlie the phenotypic spectrum of autism

Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10891821 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at the genes that might play a role in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to better understand how they affect people in different ways, helping families learn more about the condition.

More Autism research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project startSeptember 8, 2023
Project endSeptember 7, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$739,129
NIH project number1R56MH133899-01
Project IDNIH-10891821 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or those not related to affected individuals may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex genetic mechanisms that contribute to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By analyzing whole genomes, the study aims to identify both common and rare genetic variants that influence the symptoms and diagnosis of ASD. The researchers will integrate various genetic data types to fill existing gaps in knowledge about how these genetic factors interact and affect individuals differently. This comprehensive approach seeks to provide insights into the heritability of ASD and its phenotypic spectrum.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding of autism's genetic basis, potentially informing better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors associated with autism, but this study aims to take a novel, integrated approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Diego
    La Jolla, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Sebat, Jonathan — University of California, San Diego
  • Study coordinator: Sebat, Jonathan

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.