As part of our commitment to research in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities, a variety of clinical and scientific studies are currently ongoing at CERC. We have recently begun a new clinical research initiative that will use the bountiful basic science research resources at Einstein to assist us in investigating the genetic, neurologic, physiologic and environmental causes of autism, learning disabilities, cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities. Our goal in searching for the etiologies of these conditions is simple: By identifying the biologic bases of these conditions, we hope to be able to find a cure and develop treatment plans for the disabilities that so adversely affect our patients’ lives.
We are currently focused on initiatives to:
Further Early Diagnosis and Improve Intervention Modalities
Our team is involved in clinical investigations and genetic and electrophysiologic studies into the early diagnosis of autism and other developmentally disabling conditions, as well as hearing problems. We are also examining the therapeutic effects of various intervention modalities. Other studies are being carried out in the areas of physical rehabilitation, speech, hearing and language development, learning disabilities, developmental dental defects, high-risk infant follow-up, social and behavioral adjustment, and treatment of hyperactive children or adolescents and their families.
Pioneer Groundbreaking Care for Autism
CERC, in concert with Einstein's Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology, Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Molecular Genetics, is developing the Einstein Center for Autism. A collaborative effort, the new center will provide evaluation, treatment and advocacy for children with autism and autistic spectrum disorders and offer training to professionals in the care of individuals with these conditions.
The new center is also dedicated to a variety of research studies and investigations into the causes of and the treatments for this enigmatic and disabling condition. Our hope is to identify the elusive cure for autism, which is now occurring in epidemic proportions and represents a worsening public health problem.
The RFK-IDDRC has long been at the forefront of research on normal and abnormal brain development and function, and of clinical care for children with IDDs. Today, with reinvigorated leadership, the RFK-IDDRC is dissolving barriers between neuroscience and genetic research, fostering productive collaborations between basic scientists and clinicians, and advancing knowledge about and treatments for IDDs impacting children.
With access to state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, RFK-IDDRC scientists are leading the way in research on autism, Rett, Fragile X, Niemann-Pick C and other genetic and neurometabolic disorders. The RFK-IDDRC team is also at the forefront of studies on seizure disorders, deafness and other communication disorders and on the impact that the environment and nutrition have on brain development and maturation.