Investigating the role of specific brain cells in anxiety and autism
Official title: Inhibitory and Disinhibitory VIP Interneuron-Mediated Circuits in Neocortex
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11080327 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells that help control how our brains work, especially in relation to conditions like anxiety and autism, to better understand how they affect things like attention and how we process what we sense around us.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $648,370 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133751-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080327 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorders or autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the functioning of GABAergic interneurons, such as purely physical ailments, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a type of brain cell called GABAergic inhibitory interneurons that express a neuropeptide known as vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). These cells play a crucial role in regulating brain activity and are linked to various conditions, including anxiety disorders and autism. By examining how these cells function and interact within the brain's circuits, the research aims to uncover their impact on cognitive processes such as attention and sensory processing. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze the activity of these neurons in real-time, providing insights into their role in brain function and potential dysfunction in various disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating anxiety disorders and autism spectrum disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of GABAergic interneurons in various neurological conditions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rudy, Bernardo — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Rudy, Bernardo
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.