Study of changes in neuronal migration using autism patient-derived cellular models and microscopy assays

• Grant number: 24/18734-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Fabio Papes
• Grantee: Pedro Kenzo Kobaiashi Forti
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/12762-1 - Investigation of alterations in neuronal migration in an autism spectrum disorder using human cellular models and animal models, AP.TEM

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders comprise a group of neuropsychiatric illnesses caused by problems during neurodevelopment and characterized by altered social behavior, impaired communication, and repetitive behavioral patterns. Clinical and neuropathological evidence obtained over the last decade points to abnormalities in the development of the cerebral cortex suggestive of defects in neuronal migration. In this research project at the Scientific Initiation level, we will cultivate neural progenitor cells and neurons derived from patients with an autism spectrum disorder known as Pitt-Hopkins Syndrome (PTHS). These cellular models will be investigated to evaluate neuronal migration defects through two microscopy assays - scratch assay and live-imaging. We anticipate that the project will lead to innovation through the identification of new pathological mechanisms in autism and selection of pharmacological targets.