Autism BrainNet is now distributing frozen and fixed postmortem brain tissue from individuals with autism spectrum and other neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as neurotypical individuals, for use in research studies. Researchers from all over the world are eligible to apply.
A new, improved version of SFARI Base that streamlines and facilitates the process whereby researchers can request access to SFARI data and biospecimens as well as the submission of research recruitment requests, has launched.
New data were added to SFARI Gene in November 2018. This data release included updated gene scores for candidate autism risk genes, as well as the addition of new genes and copy number variant loci associated with autism. New mouse, rat, zebrafish and Drosophila models were also added.
SFARI is pleased to announce that it has selected four awardees in response to the 2018 Bridge to Independence Award request for applications. This program helps early-career scientists transition from mentored training positions to independent careers in autism research.
Family-organized groups are planning a number of meetings in 2019 for individuals with rare genetic neurodevelopmental conditions, including those due to 16p11.2 copy number variants and mutations in ASXL3, PACS1, PPP2R5D, SCN2A and STXBP1 single genes. SFARI can help to facilitate research opportunities at these meetings by connecting investigators with families.
SFARI is pleased to announce that it expects to have funded 22 grants in response to the Explorer Awards request for applications (RFA) this year.
The Innovative Medicines Initiative, a European public-private initiative, recently awarded a €115 million five-year grant for autism research. The Autism Innovative Medicine Studies-2-Trials (AIMS-2-Trials) brings together 48 partners from academia, industry and nonprofit foundations, including SFARI.
New Simons VIP Phase 2 data were recently added to SFARI Base. This data release included data from individuals with 16p11.2 copy number variants, 1q21.1 CNVs and mutations in the following single genes: ADNP, ASXL3, CHAMP1, CHD8, CSNK2A1, DYRK1A, GRIN2B, HIVEP2, HNRNPH2, MED13L, PACS1, PPP2R5D, SCN2A, SETBP1, STXBP1 and SYNGAP1.