Understanding Genetic and Environmental Factors in Autism
Project: Epigenetics, Polygenic Risk and the Social Environment in Autism
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11132652
This project aims to understand how a child's genes and early social experiences might work together to influence the development of autism and other developmental delays.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11132652 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking at how a child's genetic makeup, specifically changes in their DNA, interacts with their early social environment to affect brain development. We will use a new smartphone app called BabySteps to gather information from mothers and their young children. By studying children with autism, other developmental delays, and typically developing children, we hope to learn more about the factors that contribute to these conditions. This approach allows us to examine changes in specific genetic markers as children grow and experience their social world.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are mothers and their children between 2 and 3 years old, including those with autism spectrum disorder, other developmental delays, or typical development.
Not a fit: Patients outside the 2-3 year age range or those not interested in using a smartphone application for data collection may not directly benefit from this specific opportunity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the causes of autism and developmental delays, potentially leading to earlier identification and more targeted support for children.
How similar studies have performed: While the interaction of genetics and environment in neurodevelopment is an active area of research, this project uses an innovative smartphone application for data collection.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STRATHEARN, LANE — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: STRATHEARN, LANE
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.
Conditions: Autistic Disorder