Genetics

Identifying the Role of Parental Traits in Explaining Phenotypic Variability in Children with Neurogenetic Developmental Disorders: towards early individualized intervention 2020 Award: $39,718 Children with genetic syndromes affecting brain development are at substantially increased risk for neuropsychiatric disorders, but symptom variability has hindered the development of effective treatments. In this project, we will determine whether family genetic background can explain symptom variability in children with neurogenetic disorders. Identifying cost-effective predictors of specific areas of risk is critical in guiding the development of personalized early interventions. Need/Problem: Children diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome and Down syndrome are at substantially increased risk for developing neuropsychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite a known genetic cause for each syndrome, substantial clinical variability exists among children with both syndromes, suggesting an important role for genetic background in shaping [...]