Understanding how a specific protein affects brain development in primates
Official title: Interrogate FMRP functions in primate brain development
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11081052 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called FMRP affects brain development in primates, which could help us understand more about Fragile X Syndrome and autism, ultimately aiming to improve treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $616,891 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136152-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081052 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome or autism spectrum disorders, particularly those who are 21 years old or younger.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Fragile X Syndrome or autism spectrum disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMRP) in brain development, particularly in the prefrontal cortex of primates. By examining how FMRP functions in the primate brain, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze gene expression and protein interactions, providing insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment of these conditions. This work is crucial as previous studies primarily relied on rodent models, which may not fully represent human brain development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for individuals affected by Fragile X Syndrome and autism spectrum disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While research on FMRP has been conducted in rodent models, this approach using primate models is relatively novel and aims to address gaps in understanding FXS and ASD.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Xinyu — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Xinyu
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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.