Is the March of Dimes conducting research on Down syndrome?
Yes. Some March of Dimes grantees are investigating why errors in chromosome division occur to be able to prevent Down syndrome and other birth defects caused by abnormalities in the number or structure of chromosomes. Other grantees are investigating the role of specific genes in causing the brain abnormalities and other health problems associated with Down syndrome, with the goal of developing treatments. For example, one grantee is looking at the role of genes in causing a form of leukemia in children with Down syndrome. Another is exploring the role of genes in causing early Alzheimers disease in adults with Down syndrome. An international team of scientists has mapped all the genes of chromosome 21. This information eventually may pave the way for treatment of many features of this disorder.
