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Science in Your Area

Autism Speaks Funded Science in Florida

Autism Speaks has funded over $2,939,272 in research grants in the state of Florida. Funded studies include work done at:

University of Florida
University of Florida, College of Medicine
JFK Institute Medical Center
University of Miami
University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami Institute for Human Genetics
Florida International University
University of Central Florida
Florida State University

Spotlight on Local 2008 Science Grants:

Leena Mohapatra, University of Miami
$56,000 (Fellowship Award)

Cognitive Control and Social Engagament Among Younger Siblings of Children with Autism

Fellowship Awards are designed to expand the autism research field by encouraging and supporting the training of young scientists interested in devoting their careers to autism research.

Mark Lewis, M.D., University of Florida
$120,000 for 2 years (Pilot Award)

The genetics of restricted, repetitive behavior: an inbred mouse model

In this study, Dr. Lewis and colleagues will develop a mouse model of RRBs which will allow them to identify variations in the mouse genome associated with these behaviors. These researchers have previously identified an inbred mouse line that displays both repetitive behaviors (jumping, flipping, and weaving) and restricted behaviors (reduced exploration of the environment). The present research will examine the genetic basis of these behaviors, characterizing the regions of genomic DNA which are associated with these behaviors. This may lead to the identification of gene variants which are involved in the development of RRBs.

The examination of genetic variation in a mouse model of RRB should have direct value for clinical genetic studies of ASDs, and aid in our understanding of the underlying biology of this diagnostic feature of autism.

Click here for a full listing of Pilot Awards

Participate in Research

Autism Genetic Resource Exchange (AGRE)- for two or more family members affected by autism
Family Participation in Research - connecting families with researchers recruiting participants
Interactive Autism Network (IAN) - an online project allowing parents to report information about their child's diagnosis, behavior, environment, services received, as well as progress over time.
Autism Tissue Program (ATP) - a parent-led post-mortem brain tissue donation program

Local Clinical Trials Network
University of South Florida, Tampa - Study of Fluoxetine in Autism (SOFIA)
- The site is currently enrolling children and adolescents between the ages of 5 an 17 years diagnosed with autistic disorder. Interested families can contact RothmanCtr@health.usf.edu or call 1-727-767-8393 for more information.
  
  To learn more about the network or ongoing trials: www.autismspeaks.org/ctn and www.clinicaltrials.gov

Did you Know....
This year Autism Speaks also announces the launching of a novel research vehicle – the new High Risk-High Impact (HR-HI) initiative – conceived to support cutting-edge research in areas that are under-investigated or which could benefit substantially by bringing in outside experts. $2 million has been awarded for five ambitious proposals. View abstracts for these unique projects here.

Visit the Autism Speaks Science page to find out more about current Science and latest Research.