Uncovering Cellular and Network Mechanisms Underlying Cognitive Deficits in Fragile X Syndrome
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a devastating disorder that affects over one million Americans. Symptoms of FXS include learning and memory deficits as well as social behavioral problems, including autism. Yet, the underlying causes of these intellectual and behavioral deficits remain unknown. The goal of this research project is to improve our understanding of the brain mechanisms underlying FXS. First, the proposed studies will investigate whether brain cells in a rat model of FXS fail to respond normally to social experiences and, furthermore, test whether such cellular impairments are explained by low levels of brain chemicals, oxytocin and vasopressin, that are important for positive social interactions. Next, the proposed work will investigate whether cellular and behavioral abnormalities in FXS are caused by aberrant waves of electrical activity in the brain. The studies will test whether specific brain stimulation patterns can be used to restore healthy patterns of brain waves and thereby alleviate cellular and behavioral disturbances in FXS. The results of these studies are expected to accelerate the development of new therapeutic treatments that target cellular or brain wave disturbances in FXS.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 29, 2018
- Source ID
- W81XWH1810314
Entities
People
- Laura Colgin
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of Texas at Austin