Genetic risk screening for autism in newborns and early life follow-up
Official title: Prospective Genetic Risk Evaluation and Assessment (PROGRESS) in Autism
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11413709 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests how early genetic information from newborns can help identify kids at higher autism risk and guide timely care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,274,140 |
| NIH project number | 5P50HD109879-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11413709 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Newborns in New York City who have identifiable genetic risk variants for autism and their families.
✕Less likely to help
Infants without identified genetic risk variants or families not opting into genetic screening may not benefit.
What this research studies
The PROGRESS Center at Columbia University will screen a large newborn population using genome sequencing to find genetic risk markers for autism. It will enroll infants with identified genetic risk and follow them over time to understand early neurobehavioral patterns and how families experience receiving genetic results. The study brings together genetics, brain development, autism diagnosis, and data science to build a foundation for earlier evaluation and potential interventions. Results could inform families and clinicians about what to expect and how to manage early autism risk. The work emphasizes careful consideration of family impact and appropriate management of the child throughout the process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could enable earlier identification and timely support for children at genetic risk of autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous newborn screening pilots with genomic sequencing show feasibility, but this study advances predictive insights and family experience in autism risk.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Veenstra-Vanderweele, Jeremy — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Veenstra-Vanderweele, Jeremy
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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.