Understanding brain development issues in Fragile X syndrome
Official title: Interrogating neurogenic defects in complex assembloid models of fragile X syndrome
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10727933 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in brain development might cause Fragile X syndrome, which affects learning and can be linked to autism, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve brain function for those with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $430,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH133823-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10727933 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome or those with related neurodevelopmental disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Fragile X syndrome or similar neurodevelopmental disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how disruptions in brain development contribute to Fragile X syndrome, a leading cause of inherited intellectual disability and autism. By using advanced human neuronal models, the research aims to explore the effects of a specific protein loss on early brain cell development. The approach includes examining molecular pathways that regulate cell growth and communication in the brain, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about potential treatments that could improve brain function and connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes for individuals with Fragile X syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using human neuronal models to study neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raj, Nisha — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Raj, Nisha
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.