25/03/26
We are proud to announce that Dr Leticia Perez Sisques, postdoctoral researcher in Laura Andreae’s group, has been awarded the Save Our Scientists (SOS) Grant from the Autism Science Foundation (ASF).
Leticia’s work focuses on how manipulating gene expression may restore behavioural function in mouse models of CHARGE syndrome; a genetic condition associated with autism. The project will investigate cell types and genes that regulate autism-related behaviours and subsequently test gene therapies designed to restore the function of genes disrupted in CHARGE syndrome. By identifying genes associated with autism-related behaviours, Leticia aims to help identify new therapeutic approaches to restore gene expression and reverse behavioural deficits.
The Save Our Scientists (SOS) Grant is a new funding initiative designed to support early-career investigators conducting autism research during times of uncertainty in research funding, contributing to the ASF’s mission to fund breakthrough research that will improve the lives of people with autism. You can read more about ASF’s funding opportunities here.
"This news is extremely exciting, as our project represents the first systematic interrogation of CHD7 function in the developing prefrontal cortex. By linking Chd7 haploinsufficiency to circuit dysfunction and behaviour, we aim not only to provide mechanistic insight into CHARGE syndrome, but also to identify target genes and critical developmental windows for restoring behavioural function, and to contribute to stratification strategies for autism spectrum disorder.
I am very honoured to receive this award, which enables us to continue this work after the original NIH grant supporting it was discontinued following the withdrawal of US funding to foreign institutions."
– Leticia Perez Sisques
