Understanding how gene mutations affect brain development in autism and intellectual disabilities
Official title: Chromatin dysregulation in neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11097296 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called histone H1.4 might affect brain development in people with autism and intellectual disabilities, using rat brain cells to see how changes in this protein can influence how brain cells work and communicate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $542,593 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136375-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097296 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities, particularly those with known mutations in chromatin-associated genes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without genetic mutations related to chromatin regulation or those with other neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of chromatin-associated proteins, specifically histone H1.4, in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (ID). By examining how mutations in this protein disrupt neuronal development, the research aims to uncover the biochemical and cellular mechanisms involved. The approach includes studying the effects of these mutations in rat hippocampal neurons to understand their impact on gene expression and neuronal function. This could provide insights into the underlying causes of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating autism and intellectual disabilities by targeting the mechanisms of chromatin regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin regulation in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: West, Anne Elizabeth — Duke University
- Study coordinator: West, Anne Elizabeth
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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.