Potentiating Kv3.1 to restore brain balance in autism and schizophrenia
Official title: Development of Kv3.1 potentiators for correcting fast-spiking-interneuron hypofunction in schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11357666 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A drug-like compound that boosts Kv3.1 channels is being explored to help brain cells in autism and schizophrenia regulate signals more normally.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $584,996 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH131721-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11357666 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with ASD or schizophrenia where PV interneuron dysfunction and E/I imbalance are relevant features, typically diagnosed patients or trial-ready adults.
✕Less likely to help
If Kv3.1 modulation does not improve PV interneuron firing or if safety concerns arise, patients may not experience benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on correcting an imbalance between brain signals by targeting Kv3.1 channels in fast-spiking interneurons. Researchers aim to identify and optimize small molecules that increase Kv3.1 activity, potentially improving inhibitory control in neural circuits. The work combines genetic, pharmacological, and functional studies to understand how these compounds affect PV interneuron firing and overall brain network activity. If successful, this could lead to new therapies that address core cognitive and behavioral symptoms influencing daily life for people with ASD and schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If the approach works, it could lead to new medications that help normalize brain signaling and potentially improve symptoms and daily functioning for people with ASD and schizophrenia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show that modulating Kv3.1 can influence interneuron activity, but potent and specific Kv3.1 potentiators with good drug properties are still under development.
Where this research is happening
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Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Denton, Jerod S. — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Denton, Jerod S.
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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.