Understanding how certain proteins regulate brain receptor activity
Official title: Regulation of metabotropic glutamate receptor activity by protein/protein interactions
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11047804 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins affect brain receptors that help control communication between nerve cells, with the goal of finding better treatments for people with ADHD and autism by understanding how these proteins work and how genetic changes might influence them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $396,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136164-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047804 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to neurotransmitter regulation or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of metabotropic glutamate receptors, which are important for controlling neurotransmitter release in the brain. It focuses on how specific proteins interact with these receptors to influence their location and function, particularly in relation to conditions like ADHD and autism. By studying these interactions, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for cognitive and motor impairments associated with these disorders. The approach includes examining genetic mutations and their effects on receptor behavior in both human and animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing ADHD, autism, and related cognitive disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding receptor interactions and their implications for neurological disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Niswender, Colleen M — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Niswender, Colleen M
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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.