Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) awarded The Johns Hopkins University a Project Grant of $776,233 under the Mental Health Research Grants program (CFDA 93.242) to conduct basic research investigating novel molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and cognition. The award, effective July 2, 2026 through June 30, 2028, supports comprehensive research examining the structure and function of SYNGAP1, a protein critical to glutamatergic synapse regulation. The research team will employ molecular biological, biochemical, cell biological, and in vivo studies to characterize how SYNGAP1 regulates synapse complex formation and to elucidate the noncanonical RNA splicing mechanisms of the SYNGAP1 A1 splice variant, which represents the most significant isoform for synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.

This research directly addresses the molecular basis of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with SYNGAP1 mutations, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and epilepsy. The findings are expected to advance fundamental understanding of synaptic mechanisms underlying learning, memory, and cognitive processes, with potential implications for therapeutic interventions targeting these debilitating conditions. The project builds upon preliminary discoveries indicating that SYNGAP1's structural role at the synapse, rather than its catalytic activity, is essential for normal synaptic function and behavior.