Understanding how specific brain proteins affect autism-related brain activity
Official title: Convergent mechanisms for neurodevelopmental disorder genes
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11600294 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how particular brain proteins called NaV channels and ankyrins influence neuron signaling in autism-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | May 14, 2021 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $86,029 |
| NIH project number | 3R01MH126960-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11600294 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions who could benefit from future targeted therapies stemming from this research.
✕Less likely to help
This research is basic and may not provide direct treatments during the study, though it could inform future interventions.
What this research studies
This project explores how different NaV channels and their anchoring proteins (ankyrins) are placed in neurons and how their precise locations affect brain excitability related to autism. Using model systems and possibly human-derived samples, scientists will examine where these proteins sit in neurons, how they interact, and how disruptions might lead to symptoms seen in autism and related disorders. The work aims to connect molecular mechanisms to patterns of neuronal activity that underlie behavior and cognition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Insights from this work could pinpoint new targets for therapies aimed at improving neural circuit function in autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research supports that NaV-ankyrin interactions influence neuronal excitability, but the specific localization mechanisms in human neurodevelopmental disorders remain to be fully clarified.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jenkins, Paul Michael — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Jenkins, Paul Michael
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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.