Understanding how brain circuits develop and function in autism and epilepsy
A Circuit Mechanism for the Development of Cortico-cortical Connectivity
This study is looking at how certain brain circuits that help control behavior develop, especially in kids with autism and epilepsy, by examining how different factors in the environment affect these circuits in mice.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10905006 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of specific brain circuits that are crucial for regulating behavior and function, particularly in relation to autism and childhood epilepsy. By studying the role of GABAergic interneurons in the cerebral cortex, the research aims to uncover how environmental factors influence the maturation of these circuits. Using a mouse model, the team will explore the signaling pathways that control the development of these neurons and how disruptions can lead to long-term brain issues. This work could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of autism and related conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or childhood epilepsy.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to GABAergic dysfunction or those outside the age range of 0-11 years and 21+ years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating autism and childhood epilepsy by targeting the development of critical brain circuits.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of GABAergic circuits in autism and epilepsy, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Marco Garcia, Natalia Vanesa — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: De Marco Garcia, Natalia Vanesa
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 below.