This $641,726 federal Project Grant award from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), under the Research Related to Deafness and Communication Disorders program (CFDA 93.173), aims to investigate the role of neuronal and immune system dysfunction in auditory system deficits associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The key objectives are to: 1) characterize the expression patterns of the ASD risk gene MEF2C in spiral ganglion neurons and cochlear macrophages, 2) determine the causal links between MEF2C deficiency-induced auditory nerve dysfunction and auditory cortical dysfunction, and core ASD symptoms, and 3) test whether inhibiting abnormal macrophage activation can ameliorate auditory nerve dysfunction, auditory cortical dysfunction, and core ASD symptoms. This multidisciplinary research, to be conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina, aims to promote a greater understanding of the role of immune cells and auditory system deficits in ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders, and potentially reveal neuro-immune-based therapeutic strategies.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $641.7k | 8/13/24 |