Understanding how specific brain cells control communication in neuropsychiatric disorders
Official title: Evaluating a cell type-specific mechanism of glutamatergic synapse function and organization
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11162711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special brain cells called interneurons help manage communication in the brain, which could lead to better treatments for anxiety and autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | October 23, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $45,162 |
| NIH project number | 1F31MH140553-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11162711 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly those related to anxiety and autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuropsychiatric disorders not related to anxiety or autism may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific type of brain cell, known as interneurons, in regulating communication within the brain. It focuses on how these cells respond to signals from other neurons and how this affects conditions like anxiety and autism. By examining the unique properties of synapses, or connections, between these cells, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze the protein composition and organization of these synapses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neuropsychiatric disorders such as anxiety and autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic function in neuropsychiatric disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyer, Molly Brady — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Boyer, Molly Brady
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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.