Understanding how specific brain neurons develop and function
Official title: Development and Function of Medulla Tangential Neurons
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11137444 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells that help shape how our brains develop, especially in relation to conditions like autism, to better understand how these cells work and how problems with them might affect brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $211,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS138944-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137444 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to the functions of the medulla visual projection neurons may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of tangentially projecting neurons in the organization of brain structures, particularly focusing on the medulla visual projection neurons in the developing human cortex. By using advanced genetic analysis in a model organism, the study aims to trace the lineage of these neurons and understand their contributions to brain assembly. The research will explore how defects in these neurons may relate to neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the underlying mechanisms of brain development and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and lead to new treatment strategies for conditions like autism.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on medulla visual projection neurons is novel, similar approaches in understanding brain development have shown promise in other studies.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Treisman, Jessica E — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Treisman, Jessica E
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Actions to Decrease Disparities in Blood Pressure Control for Blacks
Aiming to help Black patients manage high blood pressure by using nurses, community health workers, and home monitoring in real-world clinics.
-
Blood-based markers to identify lung cancer risk in never-smokers
A researchers team at NYU School of Medicine is testing blood tests that might flag higher lung cancer risk in people who have never smoked, helping decide who might need screening.
-
Oxytocin's effect on social brain function in autistic adults
A group at NYU School of Medicine studies how oxytocin affects social thinking and brain activity in adults with autism.
-
COVID-19 healthcare disruptions and heart health inequities in NYC adults with multiple conditions
This project looks at how COVID-19-related gaps in care affected heart health in adults with several chronic conditions in New York City.
-
Connecting TDP-43 Pathology to Molecular Profiles in Neurodegeneration
This grant explores how specific molecular patterns in brain tissue relate to ALS and Alzheimer’s disease features, aiming to improve understanding of disease subtypes and progression.
-
INOCA-mobile heart rehab for angina and breathlessness
A mobile health-based cardiac rehabilitation program is being tested to help people with INOCA feel better and move more.
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.