Exploring a novel molecular pathway that underlies cerebellar contribution to autism spectrum disorder

• Project/Area Number: 23K14826
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 52030:Psychiatry-related
• Research Institution: Tokai University
• Principal Investigator: モハメド ダルウィシュ 東海大学, 医学部, 奨励研究員 (60938934)
• Project Period (FY): 2023-04-01 – 2025-03-31
• Project Status: Granted (Fiscal Year 2023)
• Budget Amount: ¥4,420,000 (Direct Cost: ¥3,400,000、Indirect Cost: ¥1,020,000); Fiscal Year 2024: ¥1,950,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,500,000、Indirect Cost: ¥450,000); Fiscal Year 2023: ¥2,470,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,900,000、Indirect Cost: ¥570,000)
• Keywords: Neurotropic factors / ASD / Cerebellum

Outline of Research at the Start

The cerebellum has been involved in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, the molecular mechanism underlying cerebellar development/function and its implication in ASD are not fully understood. We identified a novel neurotropic factor as a potential key molecule for cerebellar development and ASD. I will use mouse genetics, together with molecular, electrophysiological, and behavioral approaches to uncover a novel molecular pathway that underlies cerebellar development and its involvement in ASD pathophysiology.