SynGAP1: New Ways It Shapes Synapses and Thinking
Official title: Noncanonical RNA Splicing and Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation of SynGAP1: Novel Mechanisms Underlying Synaptic Plasticity and Cognition
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11574047 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A Johns Hopkins team is studying how a protein called SynGAP1 helps brain connections and thinking, to understand autism-related changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 2, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $776,233 |
| NIH project number | 1R56MH142785-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11574047 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related intellectual disability may benefit from advances in understanding SynGAP1-related synaptic changes.
✕Less likely to help
People without autism or related cognitive conditions may not directly benefit from this basic mechanistic study.
What this research studies
This project looks at how nontraditional RNA splicing and protein interactions of SynGAP1 affect synapse structure and function, with a focus on autism and related cognitive issues. Researchers will combine molecular, biochemical, cell biology, and animal studies to see how SynGAP1’s noncanonical splicing and phase behavior influence learning and memory. The work aims to link genetic changes found in autism with concrete changes in brain connections and behavior. The findings could point to new targets for therapies that support synaptic health in autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal how to restore normal synapse function and potentially alleviate some cognitive and behavioral symptoms in autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has linked SynGAP1 to synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, with animal models showing related behavioral changes.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huganir, Richard L — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Huganir, Richard L
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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.