ZNF292: understanding its role in brain development and autism-related disorders
Official title: Requirements for ZNF292 in cortical development and mechanisms of pathogenesis in neurodevelopmental disorders
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11290145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how changes in a gene called ZNF292 affect brain development and contribute to autism and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 19, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $763,894 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138528-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11290145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related neurodevelopmental conditions who carry ZNF292 mutations or have suspected ZNF292-related pathology may benefit from future translational advances.
✕Less likely to help
People whose condition is not related to ZNF292 mutations are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific mechanism-focused research.
What this research studies
This project uses mouse models and human stem cell–derived brain cells to explore how ZNF292 is needed for normal brain development and what happens when it is defective or mutated. It will examine molecular, cellular, and network effects, and how these translate into behavior in animal models and neural activity in human cells. By studying several patient‑identified ZNF292 variants, the study aims to map disruptions in transcription, neurodevelopment, and neural circuits that underlie autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. The research builds on prior findings and applies advanced experimental approaches to reveal potential targets for future interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A better understanding of ZNF292 could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Early work in ZNF292 shows that both deficiency and pathogenic variants disrupt neurodevelopment and neuronal network function in models, supporting a plausible path to therapeutic insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kroll, Kristen L — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kroll, Kristen L
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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.