Understanding how brain function affects speech in individuals with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome
Official title: Phenotyping the neural basis of sensorimotor control of speech in 16p11.2 deletion syndrome
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11051001 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the speech difficulties that people with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome face, especially since this condition is often linked to autism, and it aims to understand how their brains and body movements affect their ability to speak, comparing their experiences with those of others with autism and those who develop typically.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $696,836 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DC021711-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051001 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome, particularly those experiencing speech production difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without the 16p11.2 deletion syndrome or those who do not have speech impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the speech production challenges faced by individuals with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome, a genetic condition often associated with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. By examining the neural processes and sensorimotor control involved in speech, the study aims to identify the underlying mechanisms contributing to speech impairments. Participants will be compared with individuals who have idiopathic autism and typically developing peers to gain insights into the specific difficulties experienced by those with the deletion syndrome. The research will involve detailed assessments of speech abilities and brain function to enhance our understanding of these communication challenges.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support for individuals with speech impairments related to 16p11.2 deletion syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding speech impairments in autism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demopoulos, Carly — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Demopoulos, Carly
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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.