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Current Research
Brain Mechanisms of Overeating in Prader-Willi Syndrome
The purpose of this study is to use functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to understand what happens in the brain when people with Prader-Willi syndrome think about different types of food. We aim to identify whether the brain responds differently to high-calorie foods when people with PWS have not eaten for several hours compared to after eating. Ultimately, we hope to understand what role rewarding food has on the eating disorder in PWS. The information gained from this study may facilitate the development of appropriate interventions for the overeating problem and food-related preoccupations in Prader-Willi syndrome.
This work is supported by grant RO3HD058766-01 from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.
For more information about this study, click here.
Symptoms of Autistic Disorder in Prader-Willi Syndrome
The goal of this study is to identify the presence of social problems in individuals with PWS. Recent research has indicated that people with PWS may have social and communication problems similar to those who have an autism spectrum disorder. In addition, preliminary findings and genetic research indicates people with PWS who have uniparental disomy (UPD) genetic status may be more likely to show symptoms of autism than those with paternal deletion subtype. We aim to use the gold standard standardized measures to assess symptoms of autism to investigate the potential link to Prader-Willi syndrome. In addition, speech and language evaluations will be conducted and social-perceptual problems (such as difficulty recognizing faces) will be compared to individuals with autism.
This research is supported by a grant from the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA-USA).
For more information about this study, click here.
ONLINE STUDY: Social Characteristics in Prader-Willi Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorders
The purpose of this study is to examine behavioral similarities and differences between Prader-Willi Syndrome and Autism. If you are the parent or legal guardian of someone between the ages of 7 and 30 who has been diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome, Autism, or has a dual diagnosis of both, we would like you to answer a series of questions regarding his or her behavior. The surveys should take approximately 30 minutes to complete. To thank you for taking time to participate, you will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by mail.
For more information about this study, click here
To participate in ONLINE STUDY, click here