Investigating patterns to accelerate solutions.

At the Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Laboratory at Northwestern University, we research language and other abilities associated with autism, fragile X syndrome, and related conditions. We also investigate their associated genetic, environmental, and neural features.

Our specific study objectives include:

  • understanding different developmental strengths and challenges in language and other abilities associated with autism, fragile X syndrome, and related conditions;
  • defining subtle language and neuropsychological profiles among unaffected family members that may still be linked to the genes involved in autism and fragile X; and
  • documenting the connections between genes and environment in neurodevelopmental disabilities like autism/fragile X syndrome.

Following CDC, State, and University guidelines in order to ensure the safety of our lab members and study participants, the Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Lab has adapted a hybrid schedule for staff and students to work remote and in-person.

We’re continuing with our NIH-funded projects in ways that can be completed in-person, online, or via the mail. Members of our research team might contact you to invite you to participate in our studies in these ways.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our team with any questions; you can contact us at familystudy@northwestern.edu, or with our toll-free number – 1.877.275.7187 – which protects your confidentiality by routing to a secured line devoted to our research project.

NDL among Northwestern research groups rethinking genetics

NorthwesternNow

Environmental factors are now recognized to play a strong role in development, and pose risk factors even in strongly genetic conditions like autism. The NDL is one of the many labs at Northwestern that are considering the complex relationships between genes and environment. Click to learn more: Northwestern Now!

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