Understanding FMRP's Role in Brain Connections

Axonal FMRP in Synaptic Development

NIH-funded research Florida State University · NIH-11120943

This project looks at how brain connections develop abnormally in conditions like Fragile X syndrome, hoping to understand why.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlorida State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tallahassee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11120943 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our brains rely on tiny connections called synapses to communicate, and in conditions like Fragile X syndrome, these connections don't form correctly. This research aims to understand how a specific protein, FMRP, helps build and maintain these crucial connections. We are exploring how problems with FMRP might lead to disorganized connections and affect brain development. By studying these processes, we hope to uncover the root causes of these developmental challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders like Fragile X syndrome in the future.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal fundamental mechanisms behind neurodevelopmental disorders, potentially leading to new ways to support healthy brain development in conditions like Fragile X syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge of FMRP and synaptic development, but its specific focus on axonal FMRP's role in synaptic adhesion and terminal formation offers a novel perspective.

Where this research is happening

Tallahassee, 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 Autistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.