Investigating the role of a gene in autism and related disorders
Official title: The role of Tcf20 in activity-dependent inhibitory signaling and autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11093863 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called TCF20 might play a role in autism and other developmental disorders, using mice to learn more about how it affects brain signaling and could help find new treatments for people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $241,530 |
| NIH project number | 4R00NS129963-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093863 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or TCF20-associated neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not linked to TCF20 mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the TCF20 gene contributes to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. By using advanced neuroscience techniques and genetic tools in mouse models, the study aims to uncover the molecular pathways involved in the symptoms associated with TCF20 mutations. The research will explore how TCF20 influences neuronal signaling and whether these effects persist beyond early development, potentially revealing new insights into treatment options for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While research on TCF20 is relatively novel, similar studies on other genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Jian — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Jian
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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.