Articles tagged with Intellectual Disabilities
Salk Institute scientists found that maternal immune activation leads to epigenetic changes in mouse brains, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. These changes were particularly significant in areas of the genome associated with autism spectrum disorder.
Researchers developed a 3D human stem cell-derived retina model to study CLN3-Batten disease, a rare inherited condition causing early vision loss and progressive neurological decline. The model showed that damage to RPE support cells can trigger photoreceptor degeneration, highlighting a complex picture of the disease.
A new research tool, PGS-TRI, analyzes family data to understand how genetics and environment contribute to autism risk. The tool provides a more precise look at how 'nature' and 'nurture' interact within families, allowing researchers to better understand the complex factors that shape a child's health.
A study in Germany found that nearly half of individuals with intellectual disabilities suffer from untreated hearing loss, highlighting the need for better screening and treatment. The study, part of the HörGeist project, revealed that 70% of cases were previously undiagnosed.
A recent study published by the University of Sydney found that dexamphetamine and methylphenidate are equally effective in treating ADHD in children, with no significant differences in symptom improvement. However, children taking dexamphetamine experienced greater weight loss compared to those taking methylphenidate.
A new study found that adults with disabilities have more than three times the rate of alcohol use disorder diagnoses compared to adults without disabilities in the US. Adults with serious mental illness and acquired brain injuries had the highest rates of AUD, with men with disabilities having the highest rates.
A gene therapy approach has restored several disease-relevant traits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, including reduced seizure susceptibility and improved brain activity markers. The study's findings suggest that restoring the FMRP protein could improve symptoms such as sensory hypersensitivity and repetitive behavior.
Researchers developed a viable homozygous CHD8 mouse model, showing that stronger mutations can dramatically alter male–female autism patterns. The study revealed pronounced autism-related abnormalities in both sexes with severe mutations.
Scientists have identified a new drug target for treating Fragile X syndrome by blocking the EPAC2 brain protein, which improves abnormal brain activity and behavioral symptoms. The study uses genetically engineered mice to simulate the condition and finds that EPAC2 levels rise gradually as the brain matures.
The organization welcomes Craig Bower, Allison Hirsch Hadar, Susan Johnson, Andrew Schillaci, and Ed Warshauer to its Board of Trustees, succeeding outgoing members. These new leaders join a mission primed for global impact, signaling a reinforced commitment to accelerating safe, effective, and targeted therapies.
Researchers developed a video modeling program to enhance romantic relationship skills in young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that participants significantly improved their decision-making skills across four relationship domains, averaging 76% accuracy after the intervention. The findings high...
A new Northwestern University study has discovered a novel biomarker of schizophrenia that could also serve as a new drug candidate to treat the cognitive symptoms of the disorder. The study found that levels of the protein Cacna2d1 signal are reduced in patients with schizophrenia, resulting in overactive brain circuits.
This cross-sectional study highlights critical gaps in accessible mental health services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The findings underscore the need for policy reforms to address systemic inequities and provide disability-informed care.
Research highlights increased mortality risks among individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or cerebral palsy compared to the general population. The study's findings can inform public health strategies to address health disparities and excess mortality associated with developmental disabilities.
A new study reveals the emotional challenges faced by siblings of people with Prader-Willi syndrome, including feelings of stress, loneliness, and sadness. Siblings often take on extra responsibilities at home and struggle to cope with their brother or sister's behavior and hunger.
A UK-based study found that epilepsy can be a primary cause of death in people with intellectual disabilities, with those from ethnic minorities living in the UK being particularly at risk. The research highlights significant disparities in care and service provision, calling for systemic changes to prevent avoidable deaths.
A new study found a significant link between omega-3 intake and ADHD symptoms among Palestinian adolescents. Lower omega-3 consumption was associated with higher ADHD symptom scores, highlighting the importance of balanced nutrition in supporting cognitive health.
A new tool, WatDAT, measures vision equally precisely in younger toddlers by asking them to point out different shapes at progressively smaller sizes. This test can lead to earlier detection and treatment of vision problems in children under three, such as amblyopia or farsightedness.
Researchers found a strong correlation between industrial pollution exposure during pregnancy and the risk of intellectual disabilities in grandchildren. A study using Utah Population Database data revealed that grandmothers' prenatal exposures can increase the risk of intellectual disabilities in their grandchildren's children.
Researchers found that floor video projection with simple and interactive pacer methods improved running patterns and performance in students with neurodevelopmental disorders. The study suggests personalized support based on individual cognitive traits is crucial for enjoyable and safe physical activities.
A new study by McGill University researchers sheds light on the disruption of calcium transport in the brain's AMPA receptors, linking it to autism and intellectual disability. The findings could pave the way for treatments targeting these receptors, offering hope for patients with related neurological disorders.
Research reveals nearly 10% of individuals with disabilities misused prescription drugs in the past year, compared to 4.4% without disabilities. Young adults and those with cognitive disabilities are particularly vulnerable to prescription drug misuse.
Research from Radboud University Medical Center found that people with intellectual disabilities are significantly less likely to participate in cancer screenings for cervical, breast, and colon cancer. The results highlight the need for better alignment of screening programs with the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The article presents guidelines for designing consent materials and procedures for autistic adults and people with intellectual disability, highlighting the importance of multiple modes to deliver content. These guidelines aim to improve accessibility and respectfulness in research with individuals on the autism spectrum.
The study found disparities in tobacco use across cumulative disabilities, with those having 3 or more disabilities experiencing worsening use trends. Targeted prevention and cessation efforts are needed to address these disparities.
A new study by Bar-Ilan University researchers reveals encouraging findings about cognitive growth and development in adults with Down syndrome, challenging previous assumptions. Adults with DS demonstrated higher fluid intelligence, while those with NSID showed more fragmented cognitive connections.
Researchers identified the critical role of TIMM50 protein in mitochondrial energy production and its link to a severe and rare neurological disease. The study's findings suggest potential targets for future drug treatments and advance research on protein import into mitochondria in brain cells.
A team of researchers has identified a genetic link between rare brain malformations and protein folding defects in children. The study found that specific genetic changes can affect the function of proteins within cells, leading to abnormal cell behavior.
Researchers found that two human-specific genes, SRGAP2B and SRGAP2C, regulate the SYNGAP1 gene involved in autism spectrum disorder. The study provides a direct link between human brain evolution and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers identify a homozygous SPAG9 gene mutation associated with intellectual disability, progressive cognitive decline, and heterogeneous brain abnormalities. The study provides a unique model for understanding disruptions in cellular transport mechanisms leading to neurodevelopmental and degenerative brain conditions.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have identified a novel genetic variant associated with intellectual capacities and educational outcomes. Tandem repeats in the AFF3 gene were found to disrupt genetic instructions, impacting cognitive abilities.
Researchers found immersive VR training significantly improves life skills in adults with intellectual disability, outperforming non-immersive methods. The study showed that VR headsets enable participants to learn practical life skills faster and retain them longer.
A new Swedish registry study found that girls with mental illness or neurodevelopmental conditions have lower HPV vaccination coverage compared to their peers. The study involved over 115,000 girls and found significant differences in vaccination rates among those with psychiatric diagnoses or receiving psychotropic medications.
Researchers analyzed national Medicaid data to identify perinatal and postpartum outcomes among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Autistic pregnant people had significantly higher probability of postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression compared to other groups.
Researchers discovered that mutations in the SYNGAP1 gene disrupt prolonged human neuron development, leading to accelerated maturation and altered cognitive function. This finding has implications for understanding and treating intellectual disabilities and autism.
A new study by Johns Hopkins School of Nursing found that WIC staff need additional accommodations to provide inclusive care for parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The research highlights the importance of accessible teaching materials and respectful communication to improve access and quality of services for the...
A recent study published in JAMA Network found no association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in offspring. The study suggests that familial confounding may have contributed to previous associations observed in other models.
A recent study published by the European Psychiatric Association found a significant association between prenatal cannabis use disorder and an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual disability (ID). The stud...
Researchers discovered that good airflow and filtration in schools can significantly reduce COVID-19 infections among children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The study found that classrooms with high-efficiency air filters had lower infection rates, highlighting the importance of improved ventilation systems.
Researchers capture atomic resolution images of ionotropic glutamate receptor transporting calcium, revealing a temporary pocket that traps calcium. The mechanism discovered is conserved across all species of mammals and has implications for synaptic function and learning processes.
A study by Michigan Medicine University found large disparities in HIV care for Black patients, those with autism, and individuals with co-occurring intellectual disabilities. These groups were less likely to receive antiretroviral therapy, highlighting the need for better support and education.
A growing population of youth with autism and intellectual disabilities are involved in the US foster care system, facing increased risks for mental health diagnoses and trauma. Research found nearly 40,000 youth were in foster care in 2016, a 9% increase from previous years.
Youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities face higher risk for foster care involvement, particularly among Black and female populations. The study highlights the urgent need for system-level interventions to address these disparities.
A new study found that changes in brain function, specifically the auditory sensory memory system, may be a potential biomarker for Batten disease. Researchers measured brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG) and found a decline in response as the disease progressed.
A breakthrough study found that light exercise can improve cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome, leading to improved information processing and attention. After just eight weeks of walking, participants showed significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in errors during cognitive assessments.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed an AI model to predict long-term outcomes in extremely premature babies, identifying those at risk of intellectual disability. The model analyzed brain activity data with 80% accuracy, offering valuable information for healthcare providers and parents about expected developmental journeys.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health finds that adults with Down syndrome are more consistently enrolled in Medicaid and utilize more healthcare services than people without developmental disabilities. However, racial disparities exist, with White individuals having greater access to care.
Researchers found dementia prevalence among people with ID to be 6.44%, with modifiable risk factors identified as hypertension, depression, stroke, age, severity of ID, duration of education, and traumatic brain injury. These findings can inform better screening and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Children born to parents with substance use disorders are at increased risk of intellectual disability, regardless of whether the issue is with mothers or fathers. The study found that both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to this risk.
Research finds that 75% of boys with fragile X meet criteria for co-occurring autism, but only 31% are identified in community settings. Early diagnosis is crucial to access services improving outcomes and quality of life.
A new study by Cambridge historian Professor Lucy Delap reveals that up to 70% of people labelled 'defective' had paid jobs during high demand periods. However, this proportion fell during recessions, and even then, 30% remained in work. In contrast, less than 5% of adults with intellectual disabilities are employed today.
Researchers boosted inhibitory interneuron activity in Fragile X mice, reducing hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli. The study found that even young mice with Fragile X had lower PV neuron density and functional decoupling, but treatment restored excitatory neuron function and reduced hypersensitivity.
A study found that people with learning disabilities and autism in the Netherlands chose euthanasia or assisted suicide due to feelings of loneliness, struggling to form friendships, and a lack of resilience. The research highlights the need for individualized support services and an international debate on criteria for euthanasia and ...
A study found that autistic individuals who experience Medicaid coverage disruptions are more likely to receive an intellectual disability diagnosis later. This could be due to the fact that autism diagnoses alone may not be sufficient for retaining Medicaid coverage in states without specific criteria.
Adolescent neurostimulation of dopamine circuitry may reverse genetic deficits in frontal cortex function, rescuing structural and behavioral deficits caused by disorders. Researchers identified critical windows in brain development where interventions can target and change the course of diseases.
A new study by Bar-Ilan University found that post-secondary education improves the IQ of adults with mild intellectual disability. After four-and-a-half years, IQ levels exceeded the cutoff point for individuals with mild ID in five participants, indicating significant cognitive improvement.
A recent study found that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased mortality rates among people with intellectual disabilities, with a disparity of five times higher than in the general population. This increase was not limited to COVID-19-related deaths but also affected other conditions such as cancer and mental health disorders.
A long-term study by UC Davis MIND Institute researchers identified three distinct paths of intellectual development in autistic children: persistent intellectual disability, an increase in IQ, or average IQ. The study used IQ trajectories to track changes in communication and behavioral development over time.
Researchers found a five-fold increase in autism cases among children with no intellectual disabilities, contradicting previous findings. The study suggests that better awareness and testing for ASD play a role in the observed surge.
Researchers propose a new approach to studying camouflaging in the autistic population by observing strategies used to fit into society. This phenomenon, characterized as hiding diagnosis and fitting in socially, is linked to high levels of anxiety and long-term mental problems.