Tracing how brain cells develop in autism using genetic barcodes in mice
Mapping the dynamics of mouse neurogenesis in autism models using high-resolution genomic barcoding technologies
Researchers use genetic 'barcodes' in mice to watch how early brain cells grow and change in forms of autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11163528 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will insert unique genetic 'barcodes' into cells during mouse embryonic development so each cell's family tree can be read later. After the mice develop, they will sequence these barcodes in single brain cells and map when and where neural progenitors divide and become different neuron types. By comparing typical mice with mice carrying autism-related genetic changes, they aim to spot developmental differences that could lead to altered brain wiring. The project focuses on building a high-resolution platform for retrospective lineage mapping rather than enrolling people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll people, but its findings would be most relevant to individuals with autism and their families seeking a better understanding of the condition.
Not a fit: Patients without autism or whose conditions arise from unrelated causes are unlikely to see direct benefit from this mouse-based research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal when and how genetic risk factors change early brain development in autism and point to new targets for prevention or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Lineage tracing and genetic barcoding have shown promise in other developmental biology work, but applying high-resolution barcoding specifically to autism models is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalhor, Reza — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kalhor, Reza
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 below.