Intellectual and Developmental Disability News


KU researchers describe new direction for understanding causes of autism  

Hundreds to thousands of genes are involved in autism, but progress in determining the genetic factors has been limited. Researchers describe how new strategies are needed to understand the complex genetic landscape. 

Researchers describe how federal funding supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities nationwide

University of Kansas researchers shared information about how federal funds are distributed to each state to help individuals, families and caretakers.

Gatlinburg Conference draws 430 experts in IDD research from around the world

The Gatlinburg Conference kicked off with a panel on inclusive communication in research, which helped set the tone for the 56th annual event from April 17-19 in Kansas City, Mo.

Team leads special journal edition on including people with disabilities in research

A team from the KU Center on Developmental Disabilities in the Life Span Institute led the development of the Special Issue of Inclusion, the e-journal of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Fair offers resources for youth with disabilities transitioning from high school

Youth who have disabilities and their families are invited to a resource fair on May 4 for Wyandotte County residents to help support successful transition from high school.

Families Impacted by Fragile X and Fragile X Gene Premutation Invited to Informational Event

The Kansas City chapter of the National Fragile X Foundation is hosting a meet and greet with providers and researchers at the University of Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (KCART). Clinical service and research opportunities for individuals with Fragile X or Fragile X gene (FMR1) premutations will be discussed.

Life Span Institute to host global audience for developmental disabilities research conference

The KU Life Span Institute will welcome more than 350 scientists, graduate students and practitioners to the 56th annual Gatlinburg Conference on April 17-19.

ABATE study to test a vaccine for Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down syndrome

KU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center is participating in the first clinical trial testing a drug intended to slow down or even prevent Alzheimer's in people with Down syndrome, who are at high risk for the disease.

Books Provide Road Map for Educators, Schools to Promote Self-Determination

Two new books based upon research at the KU Life Span Institute provide a road map for educators, school communities and families to promote self-determination and use the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction, or SDLMI.

Researchers Concerned About Proposed Changes to U.S. Census

Researchers concerned changes to the American Community Survey, the most comprehensive survey of American life, has the potential to significantly disrupt the knowledge of and ability to conduct research about people with disabilities.