Understanding brain development in fragile X syndrome
Postnatal transient connectivity in brain development and implications in fragile x syndrome
This study is looking at how the brain connections of young children with fragile X syndrome, a common cause of autism, develop and how their sensory experiences can help improve treatments, with the hope of finding better ways to support these kids as they grow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cold Spring Harbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how transient connections in the brain develop during early childhood, particularly in children with fragile X syndrome, which is a common genetic cause of autism. The study focuses on how sensory experiences influence brain maturation and aims to explore the potential for pharmacological treatments that could enhance the effects of early behavioral therapies. By using mouse models, researchers will examine the mechanisms behind these transient connections to better understand their role in brain development. The goal is to identify ways to improve treatment strategies for children affected by fragile X syndrome and related autism spectrum disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with fragile X syndrome or autism spectrum disorders, particularly those under the age of 11.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have fragile X syndrome or autism spectrum disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for children with fragile X syndrome and autism, enhancing their developmental outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of transient connectivity in fragile X syndrome are not fully understood, similar approaches in studying brain development and autism have shown promise in other research.
Where this research is happening
Cold Spring Harbor, United States
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory — Cold Spring Harbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pouchelon, Gabrielle — Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Pouchelon, Gabrielle
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 below.