Understanding how the septum affects social memory in autism

The role of the septum in social memory

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10913561

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the septum affects social memory in people with autism, using mice to understand how changes in this area might help improve social interactions and emotional understanding for those with autism.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913561 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the septum, a brain region, in regulating social memory, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study aims to explore how synaptic changes in the septum influence social interactions and emotional processing. By using mouse models, researchers will examine the cellular mechanisms that underlie social memory deficits and seek to develop potential treatment strategies. The goal is to enhance our understanding of social dysfunction and improve therapeutic options for those affected by ASD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who experience social memory impairments.

Not a fit: Patients without autism spectrum disorder or those who do not exhibit social memory deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve social memory and interactions for individuals with autism.

How similar studies have performed: While the role of the hippocampus in social memory is well-established, the specific focus on the septum in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous research.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autistic Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.