The Zhao lab has been awarded a grant from the Philadelphia Eagles Autism Foundation (EAF) to investigate MBD1 – a gene thought to be associated with autism. MBD1 is involved in gene expression – specifically in neurogenesis and neuron maturation. When there is a mutation in the MBD1 gene, individuals have behavioral deficits and are often diagnosed with autism or a developmental delay. However, the mechanisms are unclear.
This project will utilize spatial genomics and patch-seq to study MBD1. Dr. Yu Gao is leading the project, with assistance from Moosa Syed, a research intern in the Zhao lab. They will be collaborating with two experts in electrophysiology, Dr. Qiang Chang, the director of the Waisman Center, and scientist Dr. Qiping Dong.
For Zhao, Gao, Syed, and the team, this project is very exciting and it would not have been possible without the support of the Eagles Autism Foundation. Founded by Eagles Chairman and CEO, Jeffrey Lurie, EAF aims to raise funds for innovative research and care programs.
Congratulations Xinyu, Yu, and Moosa!