Understanding social and spatial thinking challenges in Fragile X syndrome using rodent models

Investigating mechanisms underlying impaired social and spatial cognition in rodent models of Fragile X syndrome

NIH-funded research University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11098452

This study is looking at how Fragile X syndrome impacts social skills and memory by examining the brains of mice, hoping to uncover what causes these challenges so we can better understand the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas at Austin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Austin, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098452 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how Fragile X syndrome affects social and spatial cognition by studying rodent models. The team will explore the brain's hippocampus, particularly areas CA2 and CA1, to understand the underlying mechanisms that lead to cognitive impairments. Using advanced techniques, they will assess both cellular and neuronal activity to identify how these disruptions contribute to social behavior and memory issues. The goal is to fill the knowledge gap regarding the neurophysiological disturbances in Fragile X syndrome.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome or those exhibiting symptoms related to autism spectrum disorders.

Not a fit: Patients without Fragile X syndrome or those who do not exhibit cognitive or social impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve social and cognitive functioning in individuals with Fragile X syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While research on Fragile X syndrome is ongoing, this specific approach focusing on hippocampal mechanisms is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Austin, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions autism spectral disorderautism spectrum disorderautism-fragile X (AFRAX) syndromeAutistic Disorderautistic spectrum disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.