Investigating how certain brain receptors affect brain function in Fragile X Syndrome
Official title: Examining the role of specific NMDA receptor subunits in cortical circuit dysfunction in Fragile X Syndrome
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10926838 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors might affect people with Fragile X Syndrome and autism, especially regarding their sensitivity to sensory experiences, and it aims to find new ways to help improve brain function through testing different treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $39,712 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD113236-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10926838 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Fragile X Syndrome or autism who experience sensory hypersensitivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Fragile X Syndrome or autism, or those who do not experience sensory hypersensitivity, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of specific NMDA receptor subunits in the brain's cortical circuits, particularly in individuals with Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and autism. By examining brain activity patterns through EEG studies and using animal models, the research aims to understand how these receptor subunits contribute to sensory hypersensitivity and circuit dysfunction. The approach involves testing various compounds that can modulate the activity of these receptors to see if they can restore normal brain function. This could lead to new insights into treatment options for those affected by FXS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for sensory hypersensitivity and cognitive challenges in patients with Fragile X Syndrome and autism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding NMDA receptor functions in related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shedd, Aleya Michelle — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shedd, Aleya Michelle
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding Fragile X Syndrome: How it progresses and affects daily life
A long-term study using existing Fragile X data to map how the condition changes over time in children and young adults, including how autism, race, and location influence outcomes.
-
Sleep and mood links in Fragile X Syndrome
A short, patient-friendly study to understand how sleep problems relate to mood and depressive symptoms in people with Fragile X–linked autism.
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Connecting 3D genome misfolding to gene silencing in Fragile X syndrome
A study in people with Fragile X syndrome focuses on how 3D genome folding errors may turn off important genes, contributing to the condition’s features.
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Cortical circuit problems in Fragile X mice and people
Researchers are studying how brain circuits go awry in Fragile X syndrome by comparing mice and people to understand why certain brain rhythms and responses are altered.
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Brain biology in fragile X syndrome: how brain signals unfold and vary in patients
This grant supports research to understand brain signals and why symptoms vary in people with fragile X syndrome, aiming to translate findings into better care.
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Brain research on Fragile X Syndrome to improve therapies
A multi-year program studies brain function and differences in Fragile X Syndrome to help develop better treatments for people with FXS.
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.