Understanding how DNA organization affects brain development and conditions like autism
Distinct roles of chromatin regulation in transcriptome and genome maintenance in corticogenesis
This work explores how the way our DNA is packaged inside cells influences brain development, which could help us understand conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121012 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells contain DNA, which is carefully organized into structures called chromatin. This project looks at how this organization helps guide the development of the brain, particularly in forming the brain's outer layer, the cortex. We want to understand how chromatin ensures that our DNA is copied correctly and repaired when damaged, especially in the rapidly growing brain cells of a developing fetus. By learning more about these fundamental processes, we hope to uncover new insights into how brain disorders can arise.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but its findings could eventually benefit individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autistic disorder.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions would not receive benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a deeper understanding of the basic biological causes of brain disorders like autism, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat them in the future.
How similar studies have performed: While some aspects of chromatin's role in brain development are known, its specific functions in maintaining DNA integrity during neural development are largely unexplored, making this a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwan, Kenneth Yu-Chung — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Kwan, Kenneth Yu-Chung
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 below.