Understanding how neuron-OPC connections relate to autism
Official title: Developmental characterization of synapses between neurons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells
Funded at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory · NIH-11291912 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This NIH grant explores how tiny communication points between brain cells called neurons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells may influence autism, with findings that could guide future therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cold Spring Harbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 19, 2026 |
| Project end | June 18, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $528,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH140036-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11291912 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with autism or related neurodevelopmental conditions, whose brain biology might be influenced by neuron-OPC interactions.
✕Less likely to help
People without autism or related neurodevelopmental conditions may not directly benefit from these basic mechanistic studies.
What this research studies
Researchers will study how synapses between neurons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells form and mature, aiming to map which synapse types are affected in autism. The project uses laboratory studies to examine signaling and connections at a cellular level, seeking clues about why neurodevelopmental differences occur. By characterizing these neuron-OPC synapses, the work could reveal new targets for treatments that address brain wiring in autism. The effort is designed to build foundational knowledge that could steer future pharmacological strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Results could identify specific synapse types and signaling pathways to target for autism therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown neuron-OPC interactions exist and may influence brain development, but this work seeks more precise definitions related to autism.
Where this research is happening
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Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Cold Spring Harbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheadle, Lucas M — Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Cheadle, Lucas M
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.