Unraveling Fragile X Syndrome: New Insights into FMR1 Gene Reactivation
Discover groundbreaking methods for reactivating the FMR1 gene in Fragile X syndrome. Dive into the transformational research and the implications of self-healing at a cellular level.
Allos Pharma Advances Phase 3 Clinical Trial Design for Potential Fragile X Syndrome Treatment, Arbaclofen
Discover Allos Pharma’s advancements in a pivotal Phase 3 trial for Fragile X syndrome treatment, Arbaclofen. Learn how their FDA-informed trial design might finally bring hope to the Fragile X community.
Modeling Fragile X Syndrome using Multi-Region Human Brain Organoids
The team is developing new, more accurate Fragile X brain organoids to help researchers study neural circuit problems and accelerate testing of future treatments.
SRC Family Kinase Inhibitor as a Potential Treatment for Fragile X Syndrome
This $100,000 FRAXA grant will fuel the Smith lab’s new approach to treating Fragile X syndrome using Saracatinib, originally a cancer drug.
Fragile X Syndrome and Cancer Research: Unexpected Links and Opportunities for Collaboration
Discover unexpected links between Fragile X Syndrome and cancer. Studies show people with Fragile X have much lower cancer rates. Explore new opportunities for collaboration in this promising research.
Using Exosomes to Discover Fragile X Biomarkers
Could a simple blood test show if a Fragile X treatment is working? This team is studying brain-derived exosomes as a new way to track treatment benefits.
FRAXA Investigator Lynne Maquat Awarded 2023 Gruber Genetics Prize
Dr. Maquat discovered NMD, a key surveillance system in the body that protects against mistakes in gene expression. With funding from FRAXA she is tackling Fragile X syndrome.
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.
10 Year Vision for Fragile X Research – Dr. Elizabeth Berry-Kravis & Dr. Patricia Cogram
In this video we hear from FRAXA Investigators Dr. Patricia Cogram, Professor at the University of Chile, and Dr. Elizabeth Berry-Kravis, Professor at Rush University Medical Center as they reflect on the progress that has been made and visualize what they see happening in the next 10 years for people living with Fragile X syndrome.
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.
Fragile X Clinical Trial of New PDE4D Inhibitor from Tetra
A $200K FRAXA grant enabled a successful Phase 2 trial of a PDE4D inhibitor for adult men with Fragile X, showing strong cognitive gains without side effects or tolerance.
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: BRIDGE Study (BRain Indicators of Developmental Growth)
This study from the Wilkinson Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital is investigating how differences in brain activity affect learning, language and behavior in children with Fragile X syndrome, Down syndrome, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. One of the goals is to find brain markers that predict cognitive, language, and behavioral difficulties in these groups. Another goal is to better understand the differences in brain activity between young children with and without Fragile X and Down Syndrome, and whether these differences are similar in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
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.