Understanding how SynGAP proteins work in the brain
Official title: Defining the architecture and activation mechanisms of SynGAP
Funded at Iowa State University · NIH-10772178 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called SynGAP that helps our brains develop and learn, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how this protein works with others in the brain, which could help us find new ways to support people with mental health challenges like autism and schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Iowa State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ames, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $211,287 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH132857-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10772178 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with autism spectrum disorders, schizophrenia, or intellectual disabilities, particularly those with known SynGAP mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic mutations related to SynGAP or those with unrelated mental health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structure and function of SynGAP, a protein that plays a crucial role in brain development and learning. By using advanced techniques like protein footprinting and spectroscopy, the team aims to uncover how SynGAP interacts with other proteins in the brain's synapses, which are essential for communication between nerve cells. The findings could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms behind mental health disorders such as autism and schizophrenia, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for mental health disorders linked to SynGAP mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding protein interactions in synaptic signaling, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Iowa State University
Ames, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Underbakke, Eric Steven — Iowa State University
- Study coordinator: Underbakke, Eric Steven
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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.