Understanding swallowing problems in Down syndrome
Mechanisms of Down syndrome-associated swallowing dysfunction in mouse models
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11212343
This research explores why people with Down syndrome often have trouble swallowing, especially as they get older, by looking at genetic factors.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11212343 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
People with Down syndrome frequently experience swallowing difficulties, which can lead to serious health issues like aspiration pneumonia. As individuals with Down syndrome live longer, understanding these age-related swallowing problems becomes even more important. This project uses special mouse models that mimic Down syndrome to learn how aging affects swallowing and what genetic changes contribute to these issues. By studying these models, we hope to uncover the underlying causes of swallowing problems in Down syndrome.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with Down syndrome who experience or are at risk for swallowing impairments, though it does not involve direct patient participation.
Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or related swallowing issues would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of swallowing difficulties in Down syndrome, potentially guiding future strategies to improve quality of life and reduce health risks for patients.
How similar studies have performed: There are significant knowledge gaps regarding the age-related progression and genetic mechanisms of dysphagia in Down syndrome, making this a novel and important area of inquiry.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CONNOR, NADINE P — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: CONNOR, NADINE P
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.