Understanding how genes and brain connections develop in the human brain
Association of gene expression and brain connectivity in human cerebral cortex development and adulthood
This work aims to understand how gene activity shapes the connections in the human brain, from development through adulthood, especially in conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137637 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains are made of countless connections between cells that form complex networks, and these connections are guided by the specific genes that are active in different brain regions and at different times. We want to combine detailed maps of gene activity with images of brain connections to see how they work together. This helps us understand how the brain develops and functions normally. By doing this, we hope to uncover how disruptions in these connections might contribute to conditions like autism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work focuses on understanding human brain development and conditions like autism, and while not directly recruiting, it is relevant to individuals with autistic disorder and their families.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not receive direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of the biological roots of conditions like autism, potentially leading to new ways to identify or help those affected.
How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have explored gene expression and brain connectivity separately, this project proposes a novel integration of these data with unprecedented spatial resolution.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Hao — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Huang, Hao
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.