# The function of SCN2A in neocortex

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · 2022 · $403,750

## Abstract

Title: The function of SCN2A in autism spectrum disorder
Project Summary: Mutations identified by exome sequencing demonstrate that disruption of
the sodium channel SCN2A is strongly associated with autism spectrum disorder. SCN2A
encodes the neuronal sodium channel NaV1.2, which is expressed at the site of action potential
initiation. More recently, we have discovered that these channels are likely expressed
throughout neocortical excitatory neuron dendrites, and that their dendritic function may be
consequential to synaptic maturation and plasticity. Here, we will use a complement of
electrophysiology, 2-photon imaging, and compartmental modeling to determine how
heterozygous and homozygous loss of function of Scn2a affects the integrative properties of
neurons. Furthermore, we will use novel mouse models and genetic techniques to ask whether
changes in Scn2a expression levels in particular cell classes and developmental stages alters
neuronal function. Results of this study will provide critical insight into how mutations in SCN2A
contributes to autism spectrum disorder and the activity dependent development of cortical
circuits.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10371135
- **Project number:** 5R01MH125978-02
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- **Principal Investigator:** Kevin J Bender
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $403,750
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2021-04-01 → 2026-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10371135

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10371135, The function of SCN2A in neocortex (5R01MH125978-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10371135. Licensed CC0.

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