Understanding how synapses (nerve connections) are altered in autism and developmental brain disorders
Molecular Analysis of Developmental Brain Disorders Associated with Synaptic Pathology
Researchers are using new molecular tools to find common problems at synapses that may underlie autism and related developmental brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116958 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at the molecules in brain cells to see how genes linked to autism cause synaptic problems. Scientists will use large-scale proteomics, single-cell RNA sequencing, and genome editing in animal models to map shared disease pathways. They will also study how specific genetic missense variants lead to dysfunction at the synapse. The aim is to build a detailed molecular map that points to new targets for future treatments to improve behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with autism spectrum disorder or related developmental brain conditions and their families who follow research on underlying causes would be most aligned with this project's focus.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or enrollment in a therapeutic trial likely will not receive direct benefit because this is laboratory-based, preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal shared molecular targets that guide development of new therapies to help people with autism and related developmental brain disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous single-cell and molecular studies have begun to identify pathways in autism, but combining large-scale proteomics with genome editing at this scale is relatively novel and may reveal new findings.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soderling, Scott H — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Soderling, Scott H
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.