Understanding the neurodevelopment of Tourette syndrome
Official title: Neurodevelopment of Tourette syndrome
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11048424 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes and brain development might affect Tourette syndrome by examining brain tissue and special lab-grown brain cells, with the goal of finding out what causes TS and how we can better treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | January 19, 2019 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $850,614 |
| NIH project number | 2R01MH118453-06A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048424 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, particularly those with a familial history of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome or those with other unrelated neuropsychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and developmental factors contributing to Tourette syndrome (TS) by examining brain tissue and using advanced techniques like organoids derived from patient stem cells. The study focuses on the cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuits, which are believed to play a crucial role in TS. By analyzing the number of specific types of neurons in the brain and their development, researchers aim to uncover the underlying causes of TS and identify potential biomarkers for the condition. This research could lead to a better understanding of TS and inform future treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for individuals with Tourette syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neurodevelopmental disorders through similar methodologies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vaccarino, Flora M — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Vaccarino, Flora M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Precision brain mapping of tics in children with Tourette syndrome
A new study uses advanced MRI to map brain activity in individual kids with Tourette syndrome to understand why tics differ from child to child.
-
Digital tic-detection partner to support Tourette syndrome therapy
A computer vision system will help detect tics in children and youths with Tourette syndrome to support behavioral therapy at home and in real life.
-
Quantifying Tourette tics with video and computer tools
This project aims to develop and test video-based, automated ways to measure tic severity in people with Tourette Syndrome.
-
Brain-feedback training to help teens with Tourette control tics
This project teaches teenagers with Tourette syndrome to use real-time MRI brain-feedback to change activity in a motor brain area with the goal of reducing tics.
-
International collaboration mapping genes and brain scans in Tourette syndrome
This project brings together MRI brain scans and genetic data from people with Tourette syndrome and related conditions to spot biological patterns linked to tics and co-occurring symptoms.
-
How Tourette syndrome develops in the brain
Researchers are using donated brain tissue and patient-derived stem cells to learn why people with Tourette syndrome have fewer specific brain cells in the basal ganglia.
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.