Individuals with the Fragile X premutation are at an increased risk for depression, other psychiatric conditions, and developing Fragile X tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). Our goal is to better understand the different mechanisms within the brain that contribute to the development of psychiatric conditions, including depression. Doing so will allow us to establish better prevention and intervention efforts within this population.
Q: Who can take part in this study?
We are currently recruiting females between 18-60 who carry the FMR1 premutation.
Q: What will participation involve?
Participation involves four types of data collection:
- Web-based questionnaires.
- In-person assessments that involve responding quickly to shapes and viewing emotional stimuli.
- Gathering a variety of biological measurements such as brain activity (EEG and/or MRI), heart rate activity, and a blood draw.
- Interviews about your feelings and experiences.
Q: How will this project help the Fragile X community?
We hope that our data will impact the broader community of individuals with the Fragile X premutation and depression by improving our understanding of brain mechanisms and treatment needs.
Q: Will I need to travel?
All assessments and tests for this study are done in person and at Purdue in West Lafayette, Indiana. Travel reimbursement may be available for folks who are commuting more than 45 minutes from the Purdue campus.
Q: How can I get more information?
This project is led by Dr. Dan Foti and Dr. Bridgette Tonnsen in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Purdue University. To learn more, please complete the form below and they will contact you.
This study is funded by Purdue University and the Indiana Clinical & Translational Sciences Institute. Photo courtesy of Matthew Thomas of Purdue University.
NOTE: This study is not currently recruiting individuals.
Our Most Recent Opportunities
Study: Mechanisms and biomarkers of disease progression in Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS)
The University of Kansas BRAIN Lab is conducting a research study to learn about behavioral and brain differences associated with the Fragile X premutation. Males and females ages 50-80 living with the Fragile X premutation, with or without FXTAS, may be eligible to participate. The study includes remote & in-person visits at the University of Kansas.
Exploring Potential Barriers to the Fragile X Syndrome Cascade Screening Process
Researchers at the University of Memphis and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center are conducting a research study exploring the relationship between barriers and the FXS screening process among family members.
Grief and Bereavement Experiences of Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Researchers at the University of Maryland are looking to understand how children with Fragile X syndrome (FXS) and other intellectual disabilities grieve the loss of a loved one. If you are the parent or guardian of a child with FXS or another intellectual disability who has experienced the death of someone in their life when they were 5-17 years old, researchers want to talk to you.
Language Learning in Children: Vocabulary Acquisition in a Meaningful Context
The University of Washington's Neurodevelopmental Language and Learning (NeuDLL) Lab is conducting research addressing how children learn words in stories and the skills that support learning. Participation is remote and can be completed from home. Sessions are scheduled at your convenience.
Study: Recording the Experiences of Black and Hispanic Mothers who have Children with Fragile X Syndrome
Are you a Black or Hispanic woman raising a child with Fragile X syndrome? Researchers want to hear about your experiences. The South Carolina Family Experiences Lab is conducting 30-minute interviews to learn about the experiences of Black and Hispanic women raising a child with Fragile X syndrome. About the Study Who can participate? Black and Hispanic women of any age, who have a child with Fragile X syndrome, may [...]
Survey: What do you think about at-home research visits?
Dr. Schmitt and the Cincinnati Fragile X Center are conducting a survey to learn about potential barriers and advantages of conducting research visits in the home.