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

High-resolution image of dendritic spines—tiny structures on neurons that are altered in Fragile X syndrome.

New Research Targets NMDA Receptor – A Key Player in Brain Communication and Fragile X Syndrome

April 30, 2025

Fragile X syndrome research identifies NMDA receptor as a promising treatment target, with drugs already in trials offering faster paths to human studies.

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Together for a Brighter Future: Celebrating the 5th World Fragile X Day

April 17, 2025

Celebrate the 5th World Fragile X Day on July 22! Join a global movement lighting up landmarks to raise awareness and support families affected by Fragile X.

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Researcher analyzing gait patterns on a treadmill for Fragile X syndrome motor function study.

Fragile X and Fatigue: Study Reveals How Muscle Function is Altered in Children

April 16, 2025

FRAXA-funded research shows how Fragile X syndrome muscle function affects walking and fatigue, offering insights for future treatments.

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FRAXA's Impact to Date

Explore 30 years of outstanding Fragile X research.

$35.2M

Direct Investment in Fragile X Research

41

Teams Actively Researching Fragile X Syndrome

38

Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Partners

645

Fragile X Research Grants Awarded