Understanding how certain genes affect brain development in children with neurodevelopmental disorders
Official title: The Role of Fos and the BAF Complex in Neuronal Activity-Dependent Chromatin Remodeling and Gene Expression
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11064767 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes affect brain development and function in kids with conditions like autism and epilepsy, focusing on a protein called Fos, to find new ways to help treat these disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,020 |
| NIH project number | 5K08NS130150-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064767 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, pediatric epilepsy, or intellectual disabilities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to the genetic mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms that influence brain development and function in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and epilepsy. It focuses on the role of a protein called Fos and its interaction with a chromatin remodeling complex, which may be crucial for regulating gene expression in response to neuronal activity. By studying how these genetic programs are activated and how variations in these genes affect brain function, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for treating these disorders. The approach includes analyzing cell-type-specific binding sites and their impact on neurodevelopment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies for pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, improving outcomes for affected children.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific interactions being studied are novel, previous research has shown success in understanding genetic factors in neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating potential for impactful findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Trowbridge, Sara — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Trowbridge, Sara
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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.