Understanding Brain Development in Genetic Conditions

Brain development phenotyping of IMPC lethal mutant mice

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11121852

This research uses special mice to learn how genes affect brain development, helping us understand conditions that impact the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11121852 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project explores how our brains are built from early stages, focusing on the genes that guide this complex process. Researchers are using a special collection of mice with specific genetic changes, some of which are severe enough to be lethal, to understand how these genes contribute to healthy brain formation. By carefully observing these mice, especially those with genetic changes similar to those found in human developmental disorders, we hope to identify key genes and pathways. This work helps us discover what goes wrong in neurodevelopmental conditions that affect brain structure or function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but its findings could eventually benefit individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders affecting brain structure or function.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by neurodevelopmental disorders or brain structural abnormalities would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new genes and biological pathways involved in human neurodevelopmental disorders, leading to a better understanding and potential future treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Mouse genetic studies have been highly successful in identifying genes and processes critical for brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders, making this a well-established approach.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Brain Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.