Targeting Cognitive Function in Fragile X Syndrome

It has long been assumed that the differences between males and females with Fragile X were simply a matter of degree, with males being more severely affected. But gender differences may be far reaching. This team is working to understand imbalances in how the brain’s neurons transmit signals, with a focus on how differently males and females learn and experience anxiety. They are studying two neuronal pathways which are promising targets for treatment.

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Validating Novel Inhibitors of ERK Signalling to Treat Fragile X Syndrome

One promising treatment approach for Fragile X syndrome is to inhibit on a neuronal pathway, ERK. ERK inhibitors are also being studied as treatments for other disorders including autism.
This team has conducted pilot studies showing that ERK inhibitors are very effective in reversing signs of disease in Fragile X mice. With this grant from FRAXA they will take the next steps toward possible clinical trials of an ERK inhibitor for individuals who have Fragile X syndrome.

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Meet Ryder!

Meet #FriendofFRAXA Ryder! If you would like to nominate someone as a #FriendofFRAXA, we welcome all who have been touched by Fragile X, including friends, grandparents, siblings, professionals and companions alike to become a #FriendofFRAXA with the goal of putting a face to Fragile X for those who may not know someone directly.

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Fragile X Clinical Trial of New PDE4D Inhibitor from Tetra

With a $200,043 grant from FRAXA Research Foundation, Dr. Elizabeth Berry-Kravis completed a successful Phase 2 clinical trial of a PDE4 inhibitor for adult men with Fragile X syndrome. This trial treated 30 males, 18-45 years of age with a new PDE4D allosteric inhibitor from Tetra Discovery Partners using a crossover design, so that everyone got active drug for part of the time and placebo for part of the time.

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