Understanding how the human brain develops and its link to neurodevelopmental diseases.
Official title: Developmental Topology of the Human Cerebral Cortex
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10887282 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the human brain develops, especially in relation to conditions like autism and schizophrenia, by using special lab-grown brain models to find new ways to understand and treat these disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | December 18, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2032 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,008,977 |
| NIH project number | 1R35NS137344-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887282 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those on the autism spectrum.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders not related to the cerebral cortex may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of the human cerebral cortex and its implications for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. By studying primary brain tissue and using advanced in vitro models called cerebral organoids, the research aims to uncover unique aspects of human brain development that are not captured by traditional animal models. The focus is on specific neural progenitor cell types that contribute to the growth and complexity of the human brain, which could lead to new insights into brain evolution and potential therapies for related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and the development of targeted therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding brain development through similar approaches, but this specific focus on human cortical development is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kriegstein, Arnold — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Kriegstein, Arnold
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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.