Understanding genetic changes linked to autism
Official title: Identifying tandem repeat expansion-mediated mechanisms of autism-risk genes
Funded at University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-11169851 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This research looks for specific genetic changes called tandem repeat expansions that might contribute to autism spectrum disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $189,004 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM154702-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11169851 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational research is relevant for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder, especially those with an unknown genetic cause.
✕Less likely to help
Patients seeking immediate new treatments or diagnostic tools will not directly benefit from this early-stage genetic discovery work.
What this research studies
Many cases of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) don't have a clear genetic cause, even though we know genetics play a big role. This project focuses on a type of genetic change called tandem repeat expansions, which are stretches of DNA that repeat themselves and are often found in non-coding parts of our genes. We want to understand how these specific genetic changes might lead to ASD. By carefully studying these genetic variations, we hope to uncover new ways that genes contribute to autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us better understand the underlying causes of autism, potentially leading to new ways to identify individuals at risk or develop targeted treatments in the future.
How similar studies have gone: While other large-scale studies have hinted at the role of these genetic changes in autism, this project aims to provide more rigorous and detailed understanding of their specific mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Sznajder, Lukasz Jakub
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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.