Understanding how certain proteins affect brain development
Official title: Recognition and Ubiqutination of neurodevelopmental chromatin regulators
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10953301 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called the Anaphase-Promoting Complex (APC) works in the brain and how changes in this protein can lead to developmental disorders, helping us understand more about brain development for those affected by these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $438,342 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139210-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10953301 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with inherited neurodevelopmental disorders linked to mutations in the Anaphase-Promoting Complex.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurodevelopmental disorders or those whose conditions are not related to the APC mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which specific proteins, known as ubiquitin ligases, recognize and modify other proteins that are crucial for brain development. The focus is on a particular ligase called the Anaphase-Promoting Complex (APC), which has been found to be mutated in some inherited neurodevelopmental disorders. By studying both living organisms and laboratory models, the researchers aim to uncover how these mutations disrupt normal brain function and contribute to developmental disorders. The research involves advanced techniques to analyze protein interactions and their effects on neuronal cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of neurodevelopmental disorders and potential therapeutic targets for treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of ubiquitin ligases in cellular processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferguson, Cole John — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ferguson, Cole John
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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.