Articles tagged with Intellectual Disabilities
Researchers identified critical period plasticity in the amygdala that can be treated with therapeutic intervention at key developmental time points. Early pharmacological intervention was shown effective in reducing fear-learning in the mouse model.
A new study reveals how a rare genetic mutation affects an enzyme involved in learning and memory, leading to enhanced activation and potential treatment options. Researchers have developed a method of protein analysis that enabled them to identify a potential treatment using existing medicine.
Children with rare genetic disorders are more likely to be diagnosed with developmental, behavioural and mental health problems. A study of 2,800 young people found that those with intellectual disabilities were almost 30 times as likely to be autistic and over 13 times more likely to have ADHD.
A new curriculum called Relationships Decoded shows promise in teaching adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities about healthy romantic relationships and preventing sexual abuse. The program, tested with diverse professionals from California, improves knowledge and understanding of social-sexual relationships.
Researchers found that children with autism process brain waves differently when focused on body movements versus colors, highlighting a key challenge in communication.
A team of scientists has developed a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) called 'Intelligent Walls' for controlling electromagnetic waves to monitor human activities remotely. The technology harnesses ambient signals and can track activities like walking, sitting, and standing with high resolution.
Studies by UC Davis MIND Institute found predictive protein patterns in expecting mothers' blood and links between maternal autoantibodies and higher autistic traits. MAR ASD patterns were associated with autism before birth, with certain patterns predicting autism in previously diagnosed children.
Researchers found that COVID-19 policies significantly affected the mental health and well-being of people with disabilities. The study identified four groups: heavily impacted, resilient, adapted, and radically changed.
Researchers at Texas A&M University College of Medicine have identified a crucial mechanism driving the evolution of the neocortex, leading to increased intelligence and surface area. This breakthrough understanding contributes to insights into developmental deficits linked to autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities.
A study of nearly 4.5 million children found a potential association between prenatal exposure to antiseizure medications and increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders. The research suggests that further investigation is needed to confirm these findings.
The study found that the fragile X protein regulates the opening and closing of the GABA-A receptor in neurons from the brain's memory center, influencing how such neurons process information. This nuanced understanding may hold the key to developing effective therapies for fragile X syndrome.
A study found that high blood adenosine levels at 15 days of life correlated with white matter lesions and brain injury in very low birth weight premature infants. Adenosine may play a role in oligodendrocyte maturation and neuronal development, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for complications of prematurity.
A study found a connection between learning and memory deficits in children with Joubert Syndrome and defects in the hippocampus. The researchers used animal models to create a genetic mutation that mimicked the human disease, revealing key findings about the role of primary cilia in brain development.
A recent study found that 78.3% of autistic adults in Pennsylvania reported receiving or intending to get a COVID-19 vaccine, compared to 42% of overall adults. The research identified key factors driving vaccine acceptance and hesitancy, such as feelings of increased loneliness and concerns about vaccine safety.
A long-term study of FXTAS carriers has identified key indicators of disease progression, including cognitive decline and motor symptoms. Researchers hope to develop a validated tracking tool to monitor premutation carriers and patients with FXTAS.
Researchers have identified a novel drug candidate, lonafarnib, that improves neuronal morphological defects, abnormal function, and memory impairments in a mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex. The study suggests that reducing the levels of active Rheb is crucial for normalizing memory in TSC mice.
Researchers have identified a key brain protein to target for new customized drug therapies treating adverse symptoms of developmental disorder subtypes. The study found that mutations in ARHGEF9 lead to intellectual disability through impaired α2 subunit function, which is a central hub for many neurological symptoms.
A Geisinger study found that adults with rare genetic causes of mental health disorders are more likely to have chronic illnesses like diabetes and dementia. The research also discovered that these individuals had twice as many annual emergency room visits compared to a control group without the genetic conditions.
A study by UC Riverside researchers shows that reactivating the Fmr1 gene in young transgenic mice with Fragile X syndrome eliminates symptoms. This breakthrough treatment offers hope for young children living with FXS and suggests targeting early brain development may be effective.
An experimental drug called NAP has been found effective in treating a broad spectrum of symptoms related to autism, intellectual disability, and Alzheimer's disease. Researchers discovered that NAP normalizes brain function in mice modeling ADNP syndrome, a rare disorder linked to these conditions.
Researchers found no difference between kids exposed to language at birth, regardless of sign or speech. Children with delayed language exposure tend to struggle with executive functioning. The study suggests that 'talking' doesn't just mean speech—sign language exposure is equally nourishing for baby brains.
Researchers aim to understand language development in children with developmental language disorder (DLD) and Fragile X syndrome by examining grammar skills and executive functions. The study will gather data on a two-year developmental window, providing comprehensive insights for families and potential improvements in communication.
The study found that deaths from COVID-19 among people with learning disabilities were nine times higher than the general population, while those with eating disorders saw a five-fold increase. The research highlighted the need to prioritize vaccination and physical health care for vulnerable groups during the pandemic.
A new smartphone-based app, iBehavior, will be tested to improve the accuracy of data in clinical trials involving individuals with intellectual disability. The app uses ecological momentary assessment to track symptoms related to executive function, often associated with ADHD.
The number of autism diagnoses in England has skyrocketed by 787% over the past two decades, driven primarily by increased recognition and improved diagnosis for females. Researchers analyzed GP records and found that the greatest rises were among adults, with females making up most of the increase.
Researchers at RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research have found that Kleefstra syndrome, a genetic disorder leading to intellectual disability, can be reversed after birth. Postnatal treatment with artificially induced GLP production resulted in improved brain and behavioral symptoms.
A pilot study at the University of Cincinnati found that young adults with ASD and ID can lose or maintain weight with a system of education and support in place. Participants and parents reported knowledge and behavior change, with two participants losing significant weight.
Research from Drexel University's Autism Institute identifies higher odds of living in residential facilities, receiving outside caregiver services, and having high-risk health conditions among autistic adults, as well as those with intellectual disability and mental health diagnoses. These groups are more likely to contract COVID-19 a...
Researchers found that states have implemented new autism-specific Medicaid programs, with the most common type being the 1915(c) waiver authority, providing home and community-based services. The study suggests that further replication of successful efforts is needed to improve access to services for individuals on the autism spectrum.
A recent study reveals that different brain syndromes are caused by damage to the HUWE1 gene, leading to intellectual disabilities. The research, led by Professor Barbara van Loon, used mini-brains created from stem cells to demonstrate the common cause of these disorders.
A team of researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine has identified a new gene, AP1G1, that is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders and intellectual disabilities. The gene plays a crucial role in transporting essential materials within brain cells, and its disruption can lead to significant developmental delays.
A new study found that unconscious biases in emergency triage protocols led to prioritization of able-bodied patients over those with intellectual disabilities. Social workers can act as advocates for these individuals, while educational changes are needed to address structural inequalities and biases.
A new study published in PLOS Genetics found that lithium can improve fear memory and hippocampal neurogenesis in mice with symptoms similar to Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. The researchers suggest that this may be an effective treatment for intellectual disability caused by the disorder.
A recent study conducted at the University of Helsinki found that the risk of intellectual disability in younger siblings is low. The study utilized exome sequencing to determine the genetic background of developmental disorders and identified 9 new candidate genes, including 1 potentially novel gene enriched in the Finnish population.
A new study examines how people with limited language ability express their wishes and preferences, and how support workers respond. The research found that subtle non-verbal cues signal resistance to activities, emphasizing the need for flexible institutional timetables and staff training.
Research investigated associations between maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The study found significant links between these conditions, highlighting the importance of prenatal care for fetal health.
A study found that individuals with intellectual disabilities are 2.5 times more likely to contract COVID-19, and 5.9 times more likely to die from the infection than the general population.
Researchers at Tohoku University discovered molecular mechanisms that cause Fragile X syndrome by studying fetal brain development in mice. The study identified key molecules associated with neurogenesis, autism, and intellectual disability.
The University of Illinois Chicago will launch a post-secondary certificate program to prepare individuals with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment. The two-year Co-Op program, set to begin in fall 2021, will provide full student status, career pathways, and integration with other UIC students.
The UC Davis SEED Scholar program will provide a four-year, fully integrated college experience for students with intellectual disabilities. The program aims to create a model for inclusive education and offers a range of academic, social, and internship opportunities.
A study found that lockdown mental health problems amongst family carers are up to 10 times higher, with severe anxiety rates five times higher than non-carers. The research highlights the need for better support and services for informal carers during future lockdowns.
Despite official recommendations, antipsychotic prescribing patterns for people with intellectual disabilities have remained unchanged over a decade, while antidepressant prescriptions have increased sharply.
A pilot study found that cannabidiol significantly reduced irritability, aggression, self-injury, and yelling in children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. The intervention was safe and well-tolerated by most participants, providing hope for a larger-scale trial to definitively test its effectiveness.
Researchers at MIT have identified a potential new treatment for Fragile X syndrome, a disorder causing intellectual disability and autism, using a small-molecule compound that reverses behavioral and cellular features. The compound targets the GSK3 alpha enzyme, which may also be effective against other diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Researchers have discovered a rare disease called TRAF7 syndrome, characterized by distinctive facial features, cardiac defects, and intellectual disability. The study analyzed 45 new patients, expanding on previous research with seven individuals, to define the clinical picture of this condition.
Researchers found improvements in language communication and brain function in children with autism without intellectual disability after cord blood infusion. However, those with an intellectual disability did not show similar results.
A team of researchers has discovered that neural networks relevant to memory and learning are over-activated and connectivity is poor in mice with Down syndrome. Chronic treatment with epigallocatechin gallate improves memory deficits. The study identifies biomarkers in brain rhythms that can predict memory deficits.
Researchers developed five language outcome measures using expressive language sampling (ELS) to assess treatment efficacy in individuals with fragile X syndrome and intellectual disabilities. The study found that ELS yielded valid and reliable measures for most participants, but were more challenging for younger or less able individuals.
Researchers adapted the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery to assess cognitive ability in people with intellectual disabilities aged 5 years and above, providing objective measures. The validated battery produces reliable and valid results, paving the way for further research on its adaptation for lower mental ages and older adults.
The study validated the use of the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery in individuals with a mental age of 5 or above, measuring cognitive skills and executive function. The test proved to be feasible and reliable for a high percentage of participants, offering a standardized metric for assessing this population.
A new study by The Open University reveals UK special schools lack national progress routes for children with severe intellectual disabilities. This has resulted in teachers having no standardized way to track students' development, creating extra burdens on the schools.
Researchers at Universitat Pompeu Fabra developed a non-invasive method of stimulating the vagus nerve in mice, leading to improved memory. The study used electrostimulation in the ear, which stimulated areas of the brain important for memory, resulting in better performance in object recognition memory.
A team of researchers, led by Gholson Lyon, MD, PhD, has published a study on TAF1 syndrome, identifying brain morphological abnormalities, seizures, hearing loss, and heart malformations. The findings broaden the phenotypic spectrum of TAF1/MRXS33 intellectual disability syndrome.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new analytical tool to diagnose intellectual disability through whole-genome sequencing, discovering point mutations, structural chromosome aberrations, and expansions. This method was found to be more effective than traditional gene dose array tests in identifying genetic causes.
Researchers identified a new neurological syndrome caused by IQSEC1 gene mutations, affecting five patients from consanguineous families in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The study used fruit flies and mice to demonstrate that defective IQSEC1 proteins contribute to intellectual disability and neural development defects.
Researchers have identified a new neurodevelopmental syndrome caused by mutations in the NKAP gene, leading to developmental delay, intellectual disability, behavioral abnormalities, and musculoskeletal problems. The condition affects only males and is characterized by Marfanoid traits and cognitive impairment.
A large observational study of over 1 million UK children found that those younger than their classmates were more likely to experience childhood depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intellectual disability. The study suggests that age-related differences in brain development may contribute to these findings.
Researchers at TGen have identified a gene associated with a rare condition that results in physical and intellectual disabilities in children. Rare variants in the DDX6 gene are found to be associated with disruptions in brain development, leading to skills such as walking and talking.
Researchers at McGill University discovered how a specific mutant form of the SLC9A6 encoding gene affects neurons' ability to form connections. The study provides clues for new treatments, potentially benefiting patients with Christianson Syndrome and other neurodegenerative disorders.
A recent study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison reveals that mitochondrial dysfunction caused by a single mutation may be responsible for fragile X syndrome, autism, and other neural disorders. Researchers successfully reversed behavioral deficits in mice using a chemical treatment that restored mitochondria fusion.