Understanding how brain circuits develop to control social behavior

Maturation of frontal cortico-thalamic circuitry in control of social behavior

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11095958

This study is looking at how the brain circuits that help with social behavior grow and change in kids and teens with autism, to find the best times for support and treatment that could improve their social skills.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11095958 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the development of brain circuits that are crucial for social behavior, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). By examining how these circuits mature during childhood and adolescence, the study aims to identify critical periods when interventions may be most effective. The researchers will explore how social experiences and genetic factors influence these circuits, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for improving social functioning. The findings could help in understanding when social deficits emerge and how they can be addressed.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adolescents diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, as well as those at risk due to genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorders or related social processing challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving social skills in individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuitry related to social behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.