Creating a new assessment tool for Down Syndrome Regression Disorder

Development and Validation of the Down Syndrome Regression Rating Scales

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10932241

This study is looking for parents of teens and young adults with Down syndrome to help create a new tool that will make it easier to spot and track changes in their loved ones' abilities, so we can better understand and support those experiencing Down Syndrome Regression Disorder.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932241 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD), a condition that causes a decline in cognitive and adaptive functioning in adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome. The project aims to develop the Down Syndrome Regression Rating Scale (DSRRS), a parent-report tool that will help identify patients with DSRD and monitor their treatment responses. By assembling a cohort of 600 participants, the research will gather valuable data to improve understanding and treatment of this condition. The study emphasizes a stakeholder-informed approach to ensure the assessments are relevant and effective.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults with Down syndrome, particularly those experiencing symptoms of regression.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Down syndrome or those who are outside the age range of 10 to 30 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and treatment options for individuals with Down Syndrome Regression Disorder.

How similar studies have performed: While research on Down syndrome is ongoing, the specific approach of developing a standardized assessment tool for DSRD is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.