Understanding how brain cells affect social behavior in autism
Official title: Astrocyte-neuron mechanisms of glutamatergic modulation in social novelty recognition
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11143938 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes might affect social behavior in people with autism, aiming to understand how problems with these cells can influence how we recognize and interact with others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $327,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH137204-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143938 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who exhibit social behavior challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those whose social behavior is not affected may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in social behavior, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study aims to uncover how dysfunction in these cells may contribute to social behavior deficits by examining their impact on brain signaling and communication. By focusing on the mechanisms of glutamate transmission, the research seeks to understand how these processes affect social novelty recognition, which is crucial for healthy social interactions. The approach involves advanced animal models to explore the cellular and circuit-level changes associated with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving social behaviors in individuals with autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in brain function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kang, Seungwoo — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Kang, Seungwoo
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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.