Investigating the role of Reelin in Fragile X syndrome
Official title: Reelin and Fragile X Syndrome
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11073783 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Reelin might help improve symptoms of Fragile X syndrome, which affects thinking and behavior, and it hopes to find new ways to treat this condition through gene therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | January 3, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS141304-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073783 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome, particularly those experiencing cognitive and behavioral challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Fragile X syndrome or those with other unrelated intellectual disabilities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how Reelin, a signaling protein, affects Fragile X syndrome (FXS), which is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability. FXS presents with various symptoms, including cognitive impairment, anxiety, and hyperactivity. The study aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of FXS and evaluate the potential of using gene therapy to restore synaptic function, which could lead to new treatment options. By focusing on the role of Reelin, the research seeks to uncover novel therapeutic strategies that could improve the lives of individuals with FXS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes for patients with Fragile X syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While gene therapy approaches for FXS have been explored, the specific focus on Reelin as a therapeutic target is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nash, Kevin Ron — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Nash, Kevin Ron
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.
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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.