Understanding brain cell dysfunction in Fragile X Syndrome
Official title: Cortical Interneuron Dysfunction in Fragile X Syndrome
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11046639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells work differently in people with Fragile X Syndrome, which might help us understand why they have trouble processing sensory information, and it could lead to new ways to help improve these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $491,668 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD108370-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046639 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 sensory processing challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Fragile X Syndrome or those who do not exhibit sensory processing issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain cells, known as cortical interneurons, function differently in individuals with Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). By studying animal models, the researchers aim to uncover how these cells develop and connect in the brain, which may lead to sensory processing issues commonly seen in FXS. The study will involve detailed analyses of brain cell behavior and connectivity to understand the underlying mechanisms of sensory hypersensitivity and avoidance behaviors. This research could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving sensory processing in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve sensory processing and reduce maladaptive behaviors in patients with Fragile X Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cortical interneuron dysfunction in related conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Portera-Cailliau, Carlos — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Portera-Cailliau, Carlos
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.