Understanding how early spinal cord development is affected by specific neuron activity.
Official title: Disruption of spinal circuit early development after silencing En1/Foxp2 interneurons
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10752857 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how natural rhythms in the spinal cord help build important connections for movement during early development, and it aims to find out how problems with these rhythms might lead to motor issues in conditions like autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, so we can better understand and help those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $430,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS134172-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10752857 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders that present motor impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely genetic or non-neurological conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of rhythmic spontaneous activity in the early development of spinal cord circuits, which is crucial for establishing functional connections in the adult nervous system. By silencing specific interneurons, the study aims to understand how disruptions in this activity can lead to malformed adult circuits, potentially contributing to motor deficits seen in various neurodevelopmental disorders. The research utilizes advanced electrophysiological techniques to analyze the cellular interactions and network formations during this critical developmental period. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the mechanisms underlying motor impairments associated with conditions like autism and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for motor deficits in neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on spontaneous network activity in other areas of the central nervous system, the specific focus on spinal cord motor circuits represents a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alvarez, Francisco J — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Alvarez, Francisco J
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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.