Understanding the development of a brain region involved in motor control and coordination.
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms and Heterogeneity in the Inferior Olivary Nucleus Development
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-10952285 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a part of the brain that helps control movement develops, especially how a specific protein called Foxp2 affects its growth, which could help us understand more about brain development and conditions like autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $457,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139034-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952285 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who may have autism spectrum disorder or related motor control issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have autism spectrum disorder or related motor control issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the development of the inferior olivary nucleus, a brain region crucial for motor control. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial protein profiling, the study aims to create a detailed three-dimensional molecular atlas of this area in the brain. The research will also explore how the loss of a specific transcription factor, Foxp2, affects the development of this nucleus. This work is significant for understanding the complexities of brain development and its implications for conditions like autism.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the biological underpinnings of motor control disorders and autism, potentially informing future treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While this research approach is innovative, previous studies have shown success in understanding brain development through molecular mapping techniques.
Where this research is happening
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University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, James Y.h — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Li, James Y.h
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.