Targeting brain structures to reduce excessive repetitive behavior
Official title: Non-invasive targeting of perineuronal nets for treating excessive repetitive behavior
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11139009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder by using a safe treatment to change certain brain structures that affect their repetitive behaviors, and it’s being tested on animals to see if it can improve their behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $282,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH137636-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders or other neuropsychiatric conditions characterized by repetitive behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropsychiatric conditions or those not exhibiting excessive repetitive behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treat excessive repetitive behaviors associated with neuropsychiatric conditions like autism and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It focuses on non-invasive methods to target perineuronal nets, which are structures in the brain that can influence behavior. By using an enzyme called Chondroitinase ABC, the research aims to safely degrade these nets without the need for invasive surgery, potentially restoring normal behavior patterns. The study will utilize animal models to evaluate the effectiveness of this method in improving behavioral outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, less invasive treatments for patients with excessive repetitive behaviors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting perineuronal nets for behavioral improvement, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Kevin Scott — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Lee, Kevin Scott
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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.