Understanding Microglia's Role in Brain Development and Autism
The Impact of hiPSC-Derived Microglia in Human Brain Development in Health and Disease
This project aims to discover how certain brain cells called microglia help shape early brain connections in both healthy individuals and those with autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176873 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We want to understand how human microglia, a type of brain cell, contribute to the formation of early brain networks during development. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are complex, and we believe that changes in microglia, possibly due to genetic or environmental factors, might influence how the brain develops. Since microglia are among the first brain cells to interact with the environment, studying their role could reveal new ways to understand and treat autism. Our goal is to see if and how these cells affect brain network development and if specific genetic changes linked to ASD alter their function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families, as it seeks to understand the underlying biological mechanisms of the condition.
Not a fit: Patients without neurological disorders or those whose conditions are not related to early brain development and microglial function may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the discovery of new treatment targets and more effective therapies for autism and other neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon preliminary data and existing knowledge about epigenetic modifications influencing microglial behavior, while exploring a novel hypothesis about their specific role in human neurodevelopment and ASD.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muotri, Alysson R. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Muotri, Alysson R.
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.