Understanding how brain cells migrate and position themselves in the neocortex
Official title: Regulation of phosphoinositide metabolism and calcium dynamics in the neocortex
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11041084 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells move and settle in the neocortex, which is important for thinking and language, by focusing on a protein called CRL5; understanding this could help us learn more about conditions like autism and other brain development issues that might affect you or your loved ones.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $373,060 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131375-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041084 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to neuron migration or positioning may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that guide the migration and final positioning of brain cells in the neocortex, which is crucial for higher-order functions like cognition and language. By focusing on a specific protein, CRL5, the study aims to uncover how it regulates important signaling lipids that influence neuron behavior. The research employs advanced molecular biology techniques to explore these processes, which could lead to insights into various neurological disorders. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the biological underpinnings of conditions like autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders that affect cognition and behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal migration and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simo, Sergi — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Simo, Sergi
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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.