Investigating brain function in cognitive flexibility related to Fragile X syndrome
Official title: Understanding the role of the frontal cortex during cognitive flexibility in Fmr1 knock outs
Funded at Kansas State University · NIH-10795088 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain works when it comes to adapting to new information in rats with Fragile X syndrome, which could help us understand and improve learning and attention challenges in people with autism and Fragile X.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kansas State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Manhattan, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $71,589 |
| NIH project number | 5R03MH133173-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795088 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for potential benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome or autism spectrum disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Fragile X syndrome or autism spectrum disorder may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the frontal cortex operates during cognitive flexibility tasks in a model of Fragile X syndrome, specifically using Fmr1 knockout rats. The study will involve training these rats on tasks that require them to adapt their responses based on changing cues, while recording neural activity from their frontal cortex. By comparing the brain activity of Fmr1 knockout rats to that of normal rats, researchers aim to uncover how altered neural function affects learning and attention shifts. This research could provide insights that may eventually translate to better understanding and treatment of cognitive deficits in individuals with autism spectrum disorder and Fragile X syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing cognitive flexibility in patients with Fragile X syndrome and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding cognitive flexibility and neural function in similar models, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Kansas State University
Manhattan, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Plakke Anderson, Bethany — Kansas State University
- Study coordinator: Plakke Anderson, Bethany
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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.