Understanding how serotonin neuron types develop
Gene regulatory mechanisms controlling development of serotonin neuron subtypes
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that produce serotonin develop, which could help us understand and treat conditions like autism and depression better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10913508 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms that control the development of different types of serotonin neurons, which play a crucial role in various neurodevelopmental disorders. By utilizing advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing and ATAC sequencing, the study aims to uncover how these neurons differ at a molecular level and how these differences may contribute to conditions such as autism and depression. The goal is to identify specific developmental pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the underlying causes of their conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with autism or related neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those under 21 years old.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to serotonin dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders by targeting the specific mechanisms that affect serotonin neuron development.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant interest in serotonin neurons, this specific approach using single cell techniques to explore their development is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deneris, Evan S — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Deneris, Evan S
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.