Sunderland Biomedical Research Fund

ABOUT US MISSION INTERESTS ZNF292 GRANTS APPLYING

Expanding our understanding of the cell biology of autism

Mission Statement The Sunderland Biomedical Research Fund seeks to expand the understanding of the root cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by funding research that studies the cell biology of identified ASD candidate genes. It’s estimated that as much as 70% of autism cases are attributable to genetic causes, but the quest to find a single gene that is responsible has turned into a list of hundreds of candidates each of which may play a role. Despite the success in identifying candidate genes very little is known about the function of many of them. The Sunderland Biomedical Research Fund is dedicated to providing funding for researchers who are studying the function of ASD candidate genes at the molecular level. We have a particular interest in the transcription factor ZNF292 which may play a role in ASD as well as several cancers. Vision Statement Families who receive an autism diagnosis today find a wide range of non-medical interventions available to them, but when they speak to their doctors about medical interventions they find few options. They are often left with using a trial-and-error approach with a number of psychoactive drugs hoping for some relief from the most severe symptoms such as anxiety or hyperactivity. We feel that by supporting research into the function of suspected autism-related genes we can help with the discovery of more appropriate biomedical treatments for each individual. About Us: