Understanding how certain molecules help form connections in the brain
Official title: Non-Canonical Roles for Cell-Adhesion Molecules in Presynaptic Assembly
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-10993095 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help brain cells connect with each other, which is important for brain health, and it's using tiny roundworms to learn more about how these connections might relate to conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2023 |
| Project end | December 14, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS134338-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993095 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those on the autism spectrum.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to synaptic assembly or those without a diagnosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cell-adhesion molecules (CAMs) in the formation of synapses, which are crucial for proper brain function. By studying the roundworm C. elegans, the researchers aim to uncover how these molecules contribute to the assembly of presynaptic structures, potentially influencing conditions like autism. The study will utilize advanced techniques such as CRISPR to manipulate specific proteins and observe their effects on synapse formation. This approach may reveal new insights into the biological processes underlying neurodevelopmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown that understanding synaptic formation can lead to significant advancements in treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Summerville, Jada — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Summerville, Jada
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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.