Neurobiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders
A wide variety of neural disorders give rise to a defined range of behaviors and neurdevelopmental deficits know as the autism spectrum disorders. SINTN researchers have come together in a broad scientific effort to find the underlying basis of the autism disorders and to devise and test new treatments
The development of the brain is one of nature’s most remarkable accomplishments, involving a complex orchestration of genetic mechanisms and environmental influences during infancy and childhood. When neurodevelopment goes wrong, cognitive disorders result, ranging from problems in learning and memory to difficulties recognizing normal social cues. The most common of these disorders are the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), which affect 1 in every 150 children. Related disorders such as Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and Rett syndrome, all share clinical features with ASDs.
Down Syndrome Research Center
Down Syndrome is one of the most common causes of intellectual disability. Recent neuroscience research sets the stage for future success in understanding and treating what has until now been a disorder that is little understood, with very few therapeutic options.
The major goal of the neurobiology of cognitive and developmental disorders program is to bring together a diverse and outstanding group of neuroscientists who work together on multiple scientific levels. SINTN investigators are taking advantage of recent genetic discoveries to delve deeply into the mechanisms that underlie these cognitive/developmental disorders with the goal of discovering and testing newer, more effective treatments.
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