Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) awarded a $442,750 Project Grant to the University of California, Davis, effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028, under the Mental Health Research Grants program (CFDA 93.242). This research project investigates synaptic plasticity and signaling mechanisms in a mouse model of 22Q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22Q11.2DS), the most common chromosomal microdeletion in humans affecting approximately 1 in 4,000 live births. The primary deliverables include scientific findings on glutamatergic synaptic plasticity disruptions in hippocampal CA1 neurons, characterization of synaptic signaling mechanisms (Aim 1), and single-cell gene expression profiles (Aim 2) underlying learning and memory deficits associated with the syndrome.

The funded research addresses a critical knowledge gap concerning molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for cognitive impairments in 22Q11.2DS patients, who commonly experience learning delays and working memory deficits with lifelong quality-of-life impacts. Findings from this investigation are expected to contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions for managing cognitive symptoms and may elucidate why 22Q11.2DS presents a lowered threshold for schizophrenia vulnerability. Expected products include peer-reviewed publications, mechanistic insights into synaptic dysfunction, and foundational knowledge supporting future drug development efforts targeting the cognitive manifestations of this syndrome.