Understanding how specific genes affect brain development and disorders
Official title: The role of the protocadherin gene cluster in neurodevelopment and the implications for neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10920484 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes help brain cells, or neurons, figure out their own identities and stay in their own spaces, which is important for healthy brain development, and it could help us understand conditions like autism better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 5, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $131,733 |
| NIH project number | 5K99MH132889-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10920484 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to the protocadherin gene cluster may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of protocadherin genes in the development of neurons, focusing on how these genes help neurons identify themselves and avoid overlapping with each other. By studying the interactions of these genes at the cellular level, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to proper neuronal wiring and behavior. The approach includes using cellular assays and biophysical methods to analyze how these proteins function and signal within the brain. The findings could provide insights into neurodevelopmental disorders like autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for understanding and potentially treating neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of similar genetic factors in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flaherty, Erin — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Flaherty, Erin
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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.