Discovering Effective Treatments & A Cure for Fragile X Syndrome

Your support enables FRAXA Research Foundation to fund groundbreaking research and life-changing clinical trials.

How Does FRAXA Help?

FRAXA’s mission is to find effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Fragile X syndrome. We directly fund research grants and fellowships at top universities around the world. We partner with biomedical and pharmaceutical companies, large and small, to bridge the gap between research discoveries and actual treatments.

Every member of our staff and Board of Directors is a parent of one or more children with Fragile X, making our commitment to this cause deeply personal.

Treatments for Fragile X are likely to help people affected by autism, Alzheimer’s, and other brain disorders.

What is Fragile X Syndrome?

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of autism and intellectual disabilities. It affects 1 in 4,000 boys and 1 in 8,000 girls worldwide.

Fragile X syndrome occurs when a single gene on the X chromosome shuts down. This gene makes a protein needed for normal brain development. In FXS it does not work properly, the protein is not made, and the brain does not develop as it should.

Symptoms of Fragile X syndrome can include developmental delays, social anxiety, and learning disabilities, which vary between individuals.

The Latest from FRAXA

Neuronal synapse illustration showing neurotransmitter release, symbolizing how BK channel openers restore balance in Fragile X syndrome.

BK Channel Openers: From FRAXA Seed Funding to Big Pharma Investment and Trials

September 11, 2025

See how FRAXA’s early grants propelled Fragile X research from lab discoveries to industry momentum, with partners advancing therapies into trials.

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A Tat-Conjugate Approach to Treat Fragile X Syndrome

September 9, 2025

Explore Turner Lab’s novel approach to developing definitive treatment for Fragile X syndrome with a Tat-conjugated, truncated FMRP protein. This innovative strategy aims to restore brain circuit function and reduce abnormal behaviors linked to Fragile X by directly addressing the cause of Fragile X: a missing protein.

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#teamwally shares a joyful outdoor moment supporting Fragile X awareness as the kids explore a steering wheel together

Cognitive Rigidity: a Hallmark of Fragile X and Autism

September 8, 2025

Cognitive rigidity shapes daily life in Fragile X, driving anxiety and repetitive behaviors. Learn its impact on treatment and independence.

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FRAXA's Impact to Date

Explore 30 years of outstanding Fragile X research.

$36.9M

Direct Investment in Fragile X Research

43

Teams Actively Researching Fragile X Syndrome

33

Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Partners

651

Fragile X Research Grants Awarded