Understanding how brain connections develop and function
Official title: Delineating the synapse coordination pathway
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-10790827 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain connections in the brain work together, especially focusing on a gene called Neurobeachin that’s related to autism and epilepsy, to help us understand more about brain disorders and how they might be treated.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $405,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135433-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10790827 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with epilepsy or autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain disorders unrelated to synapse formation may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the coordination of electrical and chemical synapses in the brain, which are crucial for all brain functions, including behavior and sensory perception. By studying the gene Neurobeachin, which is linked to autism and epilepsy, the research aims to uncover how these synapses are formed and regulated. The approach involves examining the interactions between different molecules that influence synapse development, potentially leading to new insights into brain disorders. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for brain disorders like epilepsy and autism by improving our understanding of synapse formation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding synapse development, but this specific approach focusing on Neurobeachin is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Adam C — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Miller, Adam C
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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.