Understanding how gut nerves function in children with autism
Official title: Development, Function, and Dysfunction of Gastrointestinal Tract-Innervating Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11013388 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells that connect the gut and brain work in children with autism, especially since many of them have tummy troubles, to find out if understanding these connections can help improve treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $350,943 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126691-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013388 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who also experience gastrointestinal dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or those without gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific nerve cells that connect the gut to the brain in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It focuses on understanding how these nerves develop and function, particularly in relation to gastrointestinal (GI) problems that many children with ASD experience. By studying the connections between gut health and core symptoms of autism, the research aims to uncover potential links that could lead to better treatments. The approach includes examining the neural circuits involved in GI function and how they may be affected by genetic factors associated with ASD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gastrointestinal issues in children with autism, potentially alleviating some core symptoms of the disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the neural mechanisms of gastrointestinal function can lead to significant insights in related conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Orefice, Lauren Lynn — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Orefice, Lauren Lynn
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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.