Investigating why autism affects more males than females
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of sex-specific deficits in neurodevelopmental disease
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11119206 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why more boys than girls are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder by using mice to see how hormones and certain biological signals affect behavior, which could help us understand the differences between males and females with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $431,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH140028-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11119206 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly those with a male-to-female ratio in their family history.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders unrelated to the CC2D1A gene or those who do not fit the ASD diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the biological reasons behind the higher prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in males compared to females. Using mouse models, the study examines how hormones and specific signaling pathways influence behavioral deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. By focusing on a gene linked to intellectual disability and ASD, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to these sex-specific differences in behavior. The findings could provide insights into how these mechanisms operate at different developmental stages.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that address the unique needs of males and females with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sex-specific mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manzini, M. Chiara — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Manzini, M. Chiara
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.