FRAXA Drug Validation Initiative (FRAXA-DVI)
The FRAXA Drug Validation Initiative (FRAXA-DVI) provides speedy, cost-effective, objective preclinical testing to validate investigational and repurposed compounds for Fragile X.
Pharmacological Modulation of Nicotinic Signaling
This study tests whether blocking certain nicotine-sensitive receptors in the brain during adolescence can improve attention and cognition in Fragile X.
Astrocyte Contribution to Sensory Hypersensitivity in Fragile X Syndrome
This team studied how faulty calcium signaling in astrocytes contributes to sensory hypersensitivity in Fragile X, aiming to find new astrocyte-targeted treatments.
Reactivating the FMR1 Gene to Reverse Fragile X Syndrome
This project aims to reactivate the FMR1 gene to combat Fragile X Syndrome, with the goal of restoring vital protein function. This work is now funded by a new FRAXA grant.
Targeting Cognitive Function in Fragile X Syndrome
Why do males and females experience Fragile X differently? This team is studying brain signaling pathways to uncover sex-based differences and guide treatments.
Validating Novel Inhibitors of ERK Signalling to Treat Fragile X Syndrome
This team is testing ERK inhibitors — drugs that may calm overactive brain signaling in Fragile X. Early results in mice show strong benefits with minimal side effects.
Targeting Serotonin 1a Receptors to Reverse Neurobehavioral Phenotypes
Neurolixis’ new drug targets serotonin 1A receptors, showing promise in preclinical studies for Fragile X syndrome, funded by a FRAXA grant for future clinical trials.
Developmental Motor Phenotype in Fragile X Syndrome
A little known sign of Fragile X is unsteady walking. This team is developing outcome measures of gait for future treatment trials. Results published.
mRNA Therapy for Fragile X Syndrome
Dr. Kathryn Whitehead helped develop the science behind the COVID-19 vaccines. Her team adapted this technology to deliver the Fragile X mRNA to brain cells.
Sigma-1 Receptor as a Therapeutic Target for Fragile X Syndrome
Researchers will test sigma-1 receptor drugs—like fluvoxamine, which activates this pathway—to see if they can correct Fragile X brain cell abnormalities.
Versatile Drug Screening Platform for Fragile X Syndrome
Combinations of drugs may be needed to treat Fragile X syndrome. How can we find the best combinations in the ideal doses? This project tackles this challenge.
Human FMR1 Isoform-Specific Regulation of Translation and Behavior
FMRP has multiple forms, and this team will study which isoforms are most important for brain development. This is key for future FMRP replacement therapies.
Functional and Genomic Characterization of Interneurons in the Fmr1-KO Mouse Brain
The brain’s balance is maintained by two types of neurons: excitatory and inhibitory. This team has found fewer than normal inhibitory cells in Fragile X mice.
Targeting Serotonin 1A Receptors in Fmr1 Knockout Mice
Boosting serotonin 1A receptors may reduce excess brain activity in Fragile X. This study will test serotonin-1A–targeting compounds in mice to guide future treatments.
Transcriptional Signatures Sensitive to Cognition-Improving Pharmacological Treatments in Fragile X Syndrome
This team is defining Fragile X “molecular signatures” to use as biomarkers. They’ll test CBD and other drugs in mice and compare findings to human brain data.
Characterization and Modulation of microRNAs in Fragile X Syndrome
MicroRNAs are disrupted in Fragile X; the team will work to understand this and explore ways to correct it with drugs which directly target microRNAs.
Repurposing FDA-Approved Drugs to Treat Major Depressive Disorder in Fragile X Syndrome
Depression is common in Fragile X, but current antidepressants need FMRP to work. Researchers will screen FDA-approved drugs to find effective options for FXS.
Recruiting: Clinical Study of Non-Invasive EEG for Children Ages 2-7
Dr. Carol Wilkinson, MD PhD at Boston Children’s Hospital is recruiting children ages 2-7 years with Fragile X syndrome to participate in a study of EEG.
Characterization of a Novel CYFIP1 – Derived Peptidomimetic Restoring the Dysregulated mRNAs Translation: Toward An Innovative Therapeutic Strategy for FXS
This team is designing tiny “peptidomimetic” drugs that mimic FMRP’s function to rebalance protein production in the brain, aiming to treat Fragile X at its source.
Cannabinoids as a Treatment for Fragile X Syndrome
This team uses EEG to study sensory hypersensitivity in Fragile X. By testing drugs in mice, they aim to find treatments that calm brain overactivity.
Purposeful and FRAXA Partnership Leads to Clinical Trial
AI and FRAXA-DVI identified a drug + supplement combo that reversed all Fragile X symptoms in mice. A clinical trial tested this in adults with Fragile X.
Inhibiting Nonsense – Mediated mRNA Decay: A Potential Treatment Approach for Fragile X
This team previously discovered runaway nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) in cells of Fragile X patients. They will now test drugs to reduce NMD.
Exploring Drug Repurposing to Restore Hippocampal Function in FXS Mouse Models
This team found a key mechanism by which FMRP controls brain connections. They’ll test existing drugs that target this pathway to restore learning and memory in Fragile X.
Contribution of Microglia to the Therapeutic Effects of Metformin and Adiponectin in Fragile X Syndrome
Why are some with Fragile X always hungry or overweight, yet rarely diabetic? This team is studying metabolism and testing treatments like metformin and diet.