Nf2-based control of neuron numbers in the developing cerebellum
Official title: Nf2-dependent regulation of neuronal scaling in the developing cerebellum
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-11359595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how the brain makes the right mix of neurons in the cerebellum to support proper movement and thoughts, which could relate to autism and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $426,364 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS127973-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11359595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with developmental brain disorders such as autism or ataxia who could benefit from advances in understanding cerebellar development.
✕Less likely to help
No direct benefit to patients is expected from the basic science study itself.
What this research studies
This project looks at how specific brain cells grow and balance each other during early development, focusing on a regulator called Nf2 in the cerebellum. By studying how neurons scale up or down, scientists aim to understand why circuits form correctly or go awry in disorders like autism and ataxia. The work combines detailed cell biology with animal models to map how different neuron types influence each other through signaling pathways such as Shh. Findings could reveal new points to intervene if neuronal balance is disrupted.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of brain development could lead to future strategies to prevent or treat neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research shows that neuronal scaling and cerebellar development are linked to neurodevelopmental outcomes, suggesting this approach could yield meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chizhikov, Viktor — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Chizhikov, Viktor
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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.