Understanding Brain Cell Communication in Conditions like Autism
Cellular mechanisms of GABAergic inhibition in neocortical dendrites
This research explores how a key brain chemical, GABA, works in brain cells to help us understand conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129022 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on a delicate balance of signals, and a chemical called GABA plays a crucial role in calming brain activity. When GABA signaling doesn't work correctly, it can contribute to conditions like autism. This project aims to uncover the precise ways GABA influences the electrical activity within specific brain cells, particularly in their branching parts called dendrites. By using advanced imaging and electrical recording techniques in brain tissue and living models, we hope to learn how GABA helps shape normal brain function and what goes wrong in neurological disorders. This deeper understanding could pave the way for new ways to support brain health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future clinical applications could benefit individuals with conditions like autism or schizophrenia.
Not a fit: Patients without neurological conditions related to GABA signaling would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into brain function that may lead to new strategies for treating neurological conditions, including autism.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge and recent findings from the researchers' own lab, exploring new and unexpected aspects of GABA's role in brain cells.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Higley, Michael James — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Higley, Michael James
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.