Understanding a genetic syndrome linked to mental disorders using a mouse model
Official title: A mouse model of HUWE1 syndrome
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-11138981 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a change in the HUWE1 gene might affect brain development and behavior, using mice to help us understand how this could relate to rare mental disorders and intellectual disabilities in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | June 5, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $151,809 |
| NIH project number | 1R03TR005627-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138981 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with mutations in the HUWE1 gene or those diagnosed with related mental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without HUWE1 mutations or those not affected by related intellectual disabilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the HUWE1 gene, which is associated with rare mental disorders and intellectual disabilities. By creating a mouse model with a specific mutation in the HUWE1 gene, the researchers aim to explore how this mutation affects brain development and function. The study will focus on how the mutation impacts the proliferation and differentiation of neural progenitor cells, which are crucial for proper brain development. Through behavioral assessments, the research will also evaluate social interaction and recognition abilities in these mice to better understand the implications of HUWE1 mutations in humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms behind certain mental disorders, potentially guiding future treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study genetic mutations related to neurological conditions, indicating that this approach is promising.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kurokawa, Manabu — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Kurokawa, Manabu
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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.