Understanding human brain networks involved in various disorders

Assembly and characterization of human cortico-striatal neural networks

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-11092839

This study is working on creating tiny brain models to help us understand how conditions like autism, Parkinson's, and schizophrenia affect brain connections, with the hope that this knowledge will lead to better treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11092839 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to create human cortico-striatal organoids, which are miniaturized versions of brain regions that can mimic the connectivity found in the human brain. By using stem cells to generate these organoids, researchers aim to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms that lead to disruptions in brain networks associated with conditions like autism, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia. This innovative approach allows for a better understanding of how these disorders affect brain connectivity, which is difficult to study using traditional methods. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapies and treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, Parkinson's disease, or schizophrenia.

Not a fit: Patients with brain disorders not related to cortico-striatal network disruptions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies for brain disorders that currently have limited treatment options.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using human-derived organoids is gaining traction, this specific method for studying cortico-striatal networks is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

SALT LAKE CITY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: 22q13 deletion syndrome, Affective Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.