Understanding how a protein affects brain development and disorders
Official title: Analysis of CTCF Function in Neurodevelopment
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10954214 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called CTCF affects brain development and its link to conditions like autism, using advanced techniques to see how changes in this protein might impact brain cell growth and function, which could help us understand these conditions better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $216,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS138561-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954214 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those with known CTCF mutations or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those not carrying CTCF mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called CTCF in brain development and its connection to neurodevelopmental disorders. By using advanced techniques like 3D modeling and studying human stem cells, researchers aim to understand how mutations in CTCF affect brain cell development and function. The study will analyze how CTCF influences gene expression and chromatin organization during the formation of neural cells, which could provide insights into conditions like autism. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the biological mechanisms behind their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders and potential therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin organization in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watson, Lauren Ashley — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Watson, Lauren Ashley
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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.