Understanding how brain connections form in conditions like autism
Cell-intrinsic mechanisms of presynaptic assembly
This work explores how brain cells build their connections, called synapses, which are important for how our brains work and are often affected in conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11146578 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on tiny connections called synapses to process information, and problems with these connections can lead to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism. Special proteins called synaptic cell-adhesion molecules (sCAMs) help organize these connections, and changes in these proteins are linked to conditions like autism and schizophrenia. While we know sCAMs are important, we don't fully understand how they help build these connections within individual brain cells. This project aims to uncover the internal processes within brain cells that guide how sCAMs and other key proteins come together to form healthy synapses. By understanding these fundamental mechanisms, we hope to shed light on the root causes of these complex brain disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational biological work is relevant to patients with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, schizophrenia, and intellectual disability, as it explores the underlying cellular mechanisms of these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of the basic biological causes of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders, potentially leading to new strategies for diagnosis or treatment in the future.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing models of synapse formation and preliminary evidence from the research team, while proposing a novel focus on cell-intrinsic mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kurshan, Peri T — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kurshan, Peri T
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.