Creating a biorepository for Down syndrome research
Official title: The INCLUDE Project Down Syndrome Biorepository (DS-Biorepository)
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11001640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special collection of biological samples from people with Down syndrome to help researchers learn more about health issues they might face, like Alzheimer's and autism, so we can better understand how Down syndrome affects their lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $5,110,455 |
| NIH project number | 1U24AG092191-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, particularly those who may also have co-occurring conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have any associated health conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to establish a biorepository specifically for individuals with Down syndrome, which will collect and store biological samples to support various studies on co-occurring conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and autism. By analyzing these samples, researchers hope to uncover the underlying mechanisms of how trisomy 21 affects health and development. The project will involve collaboration with multiple research teams and utilize advanced techniques to explore genetic and environmental factors influencing Down syndrome. This biorepository will serve as a vital resource for future investigations into the diverse health challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals with Down syndrome and their associated health conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research initiatives involving biobanks for genetic and health studies have shown success in uncovering important health insights, indicating a promising potential for this biorepository.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Espinosa, Joaquin M. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Espinosa, Joaquin M.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Exploring how Down syndrome affects optic nerve health in kids
A study using a mouse model to understand why optic nerve problems are common in children with Down syndrome and how to prevent them.
-
Executive Function Enhancement for Young Children with Down Syndrome
A caregiver-guided program for kids with Down syndrome aged up to 11 to strengthen their thinking skills during early childhood.
-
Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions
A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.
-
Infant Down Syndrome Brain and Behavior Study
A study of infants with Down syndrome to collect brain imaging and developmental data, creating a large, shared resource to understand how autism and other factors relate to development.
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DS-ARC: Smartphone-based cognitive check for people with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer’s
A smartphone-based cognitive test is being developed and tested for people with Down syndrome who may develop Alzheimer’s disease, to track changes quietly in daily life.
-
Immune and NGF factors in Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome
This grant studies why people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease by looking at immune signals and nerve growth factor problems.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.