Understanding how early neural stem cells grow to form the cortex and how this affects autism
Official title: Transcriptional regulation of neural progenitor divisions and cell fate in the developing cortex
Funded at Sanford Research/usd · NIH-11355487 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how early brain cells divide and become different types, which can influence autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Research/usd NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sioux Falls, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $415,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH129419-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11355487 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to direct patient enrollment; the study uses animal models and cellular systems relevant to neurodevelopment and autism.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient participation is expected in this grant.
What this research studies
This project looks at the very first stages of brain development to see how neural progenitor cells multiply and differentiate. By using mouse models and molecular tools, scientists map which genes control progenitor behavior and how this shapes the cortex. They are exploring how changes in transcription factors like ZBTB7A affect brain growth and cell fate, with methods that include CUT&RUN and in vivo proximity assays. The findings could reveal why some individuals develop autism or related brain growth differences and point toward new therapeutic avenues. Participation would occur at the research site and relies on fetal or embryonic tissue models in animals, not direct patient involvement.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of the developmental origins of autism could lead to earlier detection or new strategies to support brain development.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical studies have shown that altering progenitor cell proliferation can change brain size and circuitry, supporting the relevance of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Sanford Research/usd
Sioux Falls, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pilaz, Louis-Jan — Sanford Research/usd
- Study coordinator: Pilaz, Louis-Jan
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.