Welcome to the Research View

We are a research team interested in fundamental mechanisms governing development of the cerebral cortex. The cortex is the largest structure in the brain, essential for the intellectual functions that we humans pride ourselves on.

In our laboratory based in Florence, both genetic research, looking for genes involved in brain development, and basic science research, understanding how the proteins involved in brain development function, are on-going.

Anyone with a disorder of brain development and his/her close family members may be eligible to participate in this research. Participation involves having a blood sample (usually about 4 teaspoons, less for young children) drawn from the patients, parents, and any brothers or sisters. This blood is sent to our laboratory for the DNA to be studied. We also request a copy of the patient’s medical records and any MRI or CT films.
 

• If you are interested in participating in our research please have a look at the section Participating in research study.
• if you are not a researcher, switch to the Families View