Understanding how satellite glial cells affect sensory sensitivity in Fragile X syndrome
Official title: Unraveling the role of satellite glial cells in sensory hypersensitivity in Fragile X syndrome
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10752180 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called satellite glial cells might affect the way people with Fragile X syndrome experience sensory overload, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage these sensitivities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 6, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD113508-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10752180 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome or related conditions who experience sensory hypersensitivity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Fragile X syndrome or those who do not exhibit sensory hypersensitivity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of satellite glial cells in sensory hypersensitivity associated with Fragile X syndrome, a genetic condition linked to autism. The study focuses on how these glial cells interact with sensory neurons, which are responsible for processing sensory information. By examining the communication between satellite glial cells and neurons in a mouse model of Fragile X syndrome, researchers aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to sensory processing deficits. The findings could lead to new insights into potential treatments for sensory hypersensitivity in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that alleviate sensory hypersensitivity in patients with Fragile X syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on satellite glial cells in Fragile X syndrome is novel, previous research has shown that understanding glial cell interactions can lead to advancements in treating sensory processing disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cavalli, Valeria — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Cavalli, Valeria
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.
-
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.
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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.
-
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.