The Phelan-McDermid Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope

In this episode of the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope , Lauren is joined by Dan Gallo , Executive Vice President and Head of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs at Jaguar Gene Therapy, and Tessa Clarkson , Clinical Development Consultant at Jaguar Gene Therapy. They discuss Jaguar’s Developmental Milestone Survey , a study designed to better understand how people with Phelan-McDermid syndrome gain, lose, and potentially regain meaningful developmental skills. The goal is to identify developmental patterns that could help researchers measure meaningful treatment effects and inform future clinical trials—including potentially reducing the need for placebo-controlled designs. The conversation covers the survey’s scientific rationale, lessons from a similar approach in Rett syndrome, eligibility and participation, and why family participation is especially important as Jaguar prepares for discussions with the FDA about future JAG201 development. JAG201 update: As of August 21, 2026, Jaguar reported that Cohort 1 dosing in its Phase 1/2 trial was complete and Cohort 2 dose escalation was underway. Jaguar described early indications of clinical benefit across neurodevelopmental domains and an emerging safety profile with no treatment-related serious adverse events reported to date, while emphasizing that more follow-up and complete analysis are needed before conclusions can be drawn. Learn more about the Developmental Milestone Survey: pmscaregiverstudy.com

In this episode of the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope , Dr. Lauren talks with Dr. Michael Long of NYU Langone , a neuroscientist studying the brain circuits that make vocal communication possible. This episode is a fascinating look at an unconventional approach to one of the Phelan-McDermid syndrome community's highest research priorities: communication and language . Dr. Long shares how his research has taken him from songbirds and human speech to an unusual animal with remarkable conversational abilities: the singing mouse . Unlike standard laboratory mice, singing mice engage in precisely timed, back-and-forth vocal exchanges, much like humans! After collaborating with Dr. Ben Scott (featured on "A Cross-Species Approach to Advancing Research in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome with Dr. Ben Scott and Amanda Fath"), Dr. Long has been working to develop a SHANK3 knockdown singing mouse. This will allow researchers to better understand the underlying brain circuitry involved in communication and how disruption to SHANK3 alters this. The conversation also explores why communication encompasses much more than spoken words, the importance of including minimally verbal and non-speaking individuals in research, and how "backward translation" (taking observations from individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome back into the laboratory) can help scientists ask better questions and develop more meaningful models. If you are interested in being involved with Drs. Scott and Long's study, check out the GEODE (Gathering Evidence for Optimizing Decisions) Study on our Open Studies page or contact: geode.online.experiment@gmail.com .

What do PMSF's relationships with pharmaceutical companies and other industry companies really mean for families? In this episode, Dr. Lauren Schmitt, Chief Science Officer, and Amanda Bergen, Director of Communications, take you behind the scenes to discuss how PMSF builds meaningful relationships with industry while keeping the voices of individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome and their families at the center. They explore how family feedback helps shape clinical trial design, educational resources, and research priorities, while also explaining what PMSF's role is AND what it is not. You'll also hear how these relationships can support PMSF's mission, why transparency matters, and how your participation in the registry, surveys, and community conversations helps move research forward. Whether you're new to the Phelan-McDermid syndrome community or have been following research for years, this episode offers an inside look at how collaboration can help advance better treatments while staying true to PMSF's mission of CONNECT, CARE, and CURE . Learn more about ongoing clinical trials at clinicaltrials.gov or on our webpage at www.pmsf.org/clinical-trials.

Sensitive Content Notice: This episode discusses brain donation and postmortem tissue research. Our goal at PMSF is to provide clear, transparent information so families can better understand all areas of research. While we approach this sensitive topic with care and compassion, we recognize this episode may not be suitable for everyone. In this episode, Dr. Lauren speaks with Dr. Alyicia Halladay (Chief Science Officer at the Autism Science Foundation) and Lilliam Acosta (Outreach Manager at Autism BrainNet) about Autism BrainNet, a program funded by the Simons Foundation that supports autism research through the gift of brain donation. Together, they address common questions and misconceptions and discuss how postmortem brain tissue can help advance research in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. To learn more about Autism BrainNet: https://www.autismbrainnet.org/ You can also sign up for the Autism BrainNet newsletter here: https://www.autismbrainnet.org/newsletter/ 💚 We also recognize that conversations about loss can bring up difficult emotions. PMSF offers a monthly support group for bereaved Phelan-McDermid syndrome parents. You can learn more about this support program here: https://pmsf.org/caregiver-support-groups/

In this episode, Dr. Lauren meets with the 2026 PMSF Family Conference co-chairs and PMSF staff, Amanda Bergen (Director of Communications) and Carla D'Imperio (Director of Family Support). Taking place July 15–19, 2026 in Aurora, Colorado at the Gaylord Resort, this year’s conference is centered around the theme “The Climb We Make Together”, highlighting the shared journey of families, clinicians, researchers, and advocates working to improve the lives of individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome. We discuss: What to expect from this year’s conference programming The three core pillars: Connect (Basecamp), Care (Ascent), and Cure (Summit) New structure of "Deep Dive" sessions on GI issues, loss of skills/regression, and neuropsychiatric illness Connection to Pathways, like pre-conference family focus groups and post-conference follow-up Expanded support for families, including travel assistance, sibling programming, and one-on-one expert consultations Why attending in person can be such a meaningful and transformative experience With nearly 700 attendees expected, this conference offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and make the climb—together. Learn more about the conference and direct links to register here: https://pmsf.org/2026-conference/ You can also reach out directly at conference@pmsf.org

In this episode of the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope, we explore an innovative approach to translational neuroscience: cross-species research . Dr. Lauren is joined by Dr. Benjamin Scott (Boston University) and Amanda Fath (MIT, Guoping Feng Lab) to discuss how researchers are using a shared, game-based task across humans, mice, and non-human primates to better understand how brain circuits influence perception, learning, and decision-making in Phelan-McDermid syndrome . Their short, engaging computer-based game (“Asteroids”) is more accessible to individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome. And the researchers remind us why "All data is good data". This work aims to bridge a long-standing gap between animal models and human experience through computational models that connect behavior to underlying brain circuits. Ultimately, this work is aimed at improving how discoveries translate into meaningful treatments. Research Participation Opportunity! The research team is currently recruiting individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome: Eligibility: 11–21 years old diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid syndrome; Able to use a touchscreen device or mouse; Do not have a seizure disorder or history of seizures that could be triggered by flashes Format: Fully virtual Time commitment: 20-40 minutes If you’re unsure whether your loved one can participate—reach out. Even partial participation provides valuable data. If interested in enrolling, or for more information, contact: geode.online.experiment@gmail.com or 203-216-9618

This episode's guest: Dr. Jonathan Santoro, MD Pediatric Neurologist & NeuroimmunologistChildren’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA)2025 Shannon O’Boyle Memorial Neuropsychiatric Illness Grant Awardee Overview: In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jonathan Santoro , our 2025 Shannon O’Boyle Memorial Neuropsychiatric Illness Grant Awardee, who is pediatric neurologist. Dr. Santoro's work focuses on developmental regression and neuropsychiatric illness , and he shares with Dr. Lauren why his research team is turning its attention to Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS). Dr. Santoro’s PMSF-funded project, “Diagnostic Biomarkers in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome-Associated Neuropsychiatric Disease,” uses tests that are already part of standard clinical care (like EEGs, MRIs, blood work, and lumbar punctures), the team will look for biological “signatures”, or biomarkers, to help lead to better diagnosis, earlier detection, and more targeted treatments for individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome who experience neuropsychiatric illness. His study is currently enrolling (February 2026) Check out our open studies page for more information: https://pmsf.org/current-open-research/

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Natasha Ludwig (Kennedy Krieger Institute / Johns Hopkins) and Dr. Jenny Downs (Kids Research Institute, Australia) for an exciting update on the Inchstone Project —a collaborative international effort to improve how we measure progress and quality of life for individuals with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs), including Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS) . We discuss: What the Inchstone Project is and why it matters How families helped shape new research by contributing to the DEE Parent Speak Survey Key findings on quality of life, including the importance of communication, cognitive skills, and touchscreen use What “clinical meaningfulness” really means—and why small changes can have a big impact How this research is informing clinical trial readiness and future interventions What’s next for the Inchstone team, including a follow-up longitudinal study PMS families made up nearly 20% of the study sample! Thank you for helping move science forward. Recorded: July 22, 2025 Aired: January 21, 2026 Updates since being recorded Dr. Ludwig is a confirmed speaker at the 2026 PMSF Family Conference! The paper on quality of life is published! Check it out here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11136-025-04153-0

Drs. Audrey Thurm and Latha Soorya join us to discuss key findings from the NIH-funded Natural History Study in Phelan-McDermid syndrome, including intellectual disability profiles, daily living skill growth, regression, and how caregiver input drives research. Learn how these discoveries are guiding clinical trials, behavioral therapy, and everyday care—and why your family's participation makes all the difference.

Amanda Bergen, Director of Communications at the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation, steps in for Dr. Lauren Schmitt to host a special conversation with Dr. Dan Gallo, Kate Neer, and Gina Newton from Jaguar Gene Therapy. Together, they explore the origins and mission of Jaguar Gene Therapy, provide an overview of the Phelan-McDermid syndrome natural history study (NHS) and why it matters, describe key insights into their gene therapy program, and discuss details about JAG201. Check out the link to learn more about the NHS: https://pmsf.org/current-open-research/ Check out our previous webinar on the NHS: https://youtu.be/pOzTf3qnNmk?feature=shared Check out the updated FAQs for further information about the ongoing JAG201 gene therapy trial: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QUfuSUQQ9ozOI2eIloRPbmJJw929l-wO/view?usp=sharing Learn more about Jaguar Gene Therapy: https://jaguargenetherapy.com/

In this episode, Dr. Lauren sits down with Megan O’Boyle, a longtime advocate and parent in the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation community, to talk about why research funding is so essential. Megan shares her journey with the Foundation, how her family helped shape its commitment to science from the very beginning, and the story behind the Shannon O’Boyle Memorial Grant for Neuropsychiatric Illness. Together, Dr. Lauren and Megan also discuss PMSF’s new fundraising opportunity, Driving Research Breakthroughs, and what it means for the future of research, treatments, and cures. Check out the link to our Driving Research Breakthroughs campaign: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/researchgrants Check out the link to our grant opportunities for researchers: https://pmsf.org/for-researchers/funding-opportunities/

In this new episode, Dr. Lauren focuses on the diagnostic odyssey of getting a genetic diagnosis with Drs. Ame Shillington and Sheldon Garrison. Dr. Shillington is a clinical geneticist and assistant professor from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Dr. Garrison is Research Scientist at Rogers Behavioral Health who is on our Scientific Advisory Committee. Did You Know!? The average delay from initial concern to genetic diagnosis of rare disorders like Phelan-McDermid syndrome is over 9 years! Of individuals who receive a genetic diagnosis due to neurodevelopmental concerns, approximately 90% see improvement in their treatment management and care after receiving the diagnosis! Tune in to hear more about the research behind the delayed diagnosis of rare genetic disorders like Phelan-McDermid syndrome, and what each is doing to help reduce this delay and increase access to genetic testing! Check out the papers mentioned in the podcast below to learn more: Dr. Sheldon Garrison: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40750893/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40252994/ Dr. Ame Shillington: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37642312/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35769998/

In this exciting combo episode about new avenues in Phelan-McDermid syndrome research, Dr. Lauren speaks with Dr. Boaz Barak from Tel Aviv University and Dr. Haitham Amal from Hebrew University/Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Barak describes his work on understanding the process of myelination, where "electrical cables" help brain cells to communicate, and how SHANK3 is involved in this process. He also discusses his lab's work on possible treatments for Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Dr. Barak's work was recently awarded Autism Science Foundation's Profound Autism Pilot Grants! Read more here: https://autismsciencefoundation.org/asf-funded-research/ Dr. Amal explains why nitric oxide (NO) is important for brain functioning and how NO is linked to autism as well as Phelan-McDermid Syndrome. He also describes his ongoing work with the two companies that he co-founded, NeuroNOS and Point6 Bio. NeurNOS's lead investigational therapy, BA-102, for the treatment of Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS) just received Orphan Drug status from the FDA! Learn more here: https://www.neuro-nos.com/oddpms Don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts to discover groundbreaking research uncovering new paths in understanding and treating Phelan-McDermid Syndrome — hope and progress are on the horizon!

In this episode, Dr. Lauren speaks with the 2024 Shannon O’Boyle Memorial Neuropsychiatric Illness Grant awardees, Tess Levy of the Seaver Autism Center at Mount Sinai and Dr. Pilar Trelles of Boston Children’s Hospital. In their project titled, "Adapting PIPS for Progress: Development and Validation of an Ecological Momentary Assessment Tool to Enhance Psychiatric Symptoms, Monitoring and Intervention Response in Phelan-McDermid Syndrome", they address the need for better measurement tools of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Phelan-McDermid syndrome as well as the importance of involving caregivers and medical experts in the process of developing measures. Tune in to hear more about the measure and why it's so needed! Interested in participating in their study and filling out the updated measure? Act fast! They are collecting data for a only a few more days! You can participate here: https://redcap.link/014yntw7 Tune in now, and don't forget to subscribe to this podcast so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, Dr. Lauren speaks with the winner of the 2024 Translational Grant Award, Dr. João Peça of the University of Coimbra in Portugal. Starting in the field of neuroscience and coming across SHANK3 before it was associated with Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Dr. Peça explains how his work sits at the crossroads of scientific curiosity and practical goals: Better understanding the brain alterations in Phelan-McDermid syndrome and searching for ways to improve them in patients. Dr. Peça helps explain his research project in an accessible way for all listeners! So tune in to hear how Dr. Peça's work is hoping to open new avenues in therapeutics for Phelan-McDermid syndrome! With the help of the 2024 Translational Grant, his project along with our other PMSF-funded grants pave the way for early support that researchers need to explore bold ideas, generate data, and build the foundation for larger projects!

Get ready to be inspired by impactful voices in advocacy! Join Dr. Lauren as she sits down with Katie Collins, Samantha von Felden, and Mark Vieth — three passionate advocates working on the front lines in Washington, D.C., fighting for the rights of individuals with rare diseases. In this episode, they share their insights, stories, and strategies for creating change where it matters most. Whether you're new to advocacy or you know a thing or two, their expertise is a true resource to all of us in the Phelan-McDermid syndrome Community. Tune in now and hear how these changemakers are using their voices to elevate ours. And if you are interested in starting your advocacy journey, check out the link in bio/comments to sign up for Rare Across America, which sets up virtual meetings with Senate offices and in-person in-district meetings with Representative offices from August 4-15, 2025! www.RareAcrossAmerica.org Last, we want to thank all our advocacy partners who are keeping us updated and informed. Check out the organizations below and maybe even sign-up for their emails! EveryLife Foundation National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) National Down Syndrome Congress The Arc Genetic Alliance Global Genes Rare Epilepsy Network Child Neurology Foundation

We are back with Part 2 of our interview with Dr. Kristy Johnson, winner of our 2024 PMSF Innovation Award! In this episode, you will hear about the specifics about her project titled "ROSCO: A Novel Virtual Natural Communication Paradigm for Individuals with PMS". After detailing all the challenges associated with available measures of language and communication in Part 1, Dr. Lauren dives in to learn how Dr. Kristy is using a novel tool to capture communication in individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome! This novel tool is ALL home-based and hones in the unique ways each individual communicates. And if you haven't tuned into Part 1 yet, we HIGHLY recommend starting there! Interested in participating in ROSCO? Email NDDLab@northeastern.edu to learn more about the study. Like our podcast? Don't forget to follow and rate us!

Have you ever felt discouraged filling out clinical measures about your child? Do you wish a language measure better captured your child's unique way of communicating? Then this podcast episode is for you! Trust me. In this episode of "The Phelan-McDermid Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope", Dr. Lauren is talking to Dr. Kristy Johnson from Northeastern University, who received the 2024 PMSF Innovation Award for her project titled, "ROSCO: A Novel Virtual Natural Communication Paradigm for Individuals with PMS". Drs. Lauren and Kristy had such a good (and important!) conversation that we decided to split the episode in two parts. In Part 1 's episode today, you will get to learn Dr. Kristy's unique pathway into Phelan-McDermid syndrome research and about the challenges with existing clinical measures in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. And stay tuned for Part 2, dropping next week! Like our podcast? Don't forget to follow and rate us!

Welcome back to "The Phelan-McDermid Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope" This is our third and final episode from our mini-series featuring the 2023 PMSF Grant Awardees! On this episode, Dr. Lauren is talking to Dr. Milena Andzelm from Boston Children's Hospital. She received the Shannon O'Boyle Memorial Neuropsychiatric Illness Grant for her grant titled “Investigating Immune and Autoimmune Mechanisms of Neuropsychiatric Decompensation in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Tune in to learn more about how a clinical case during Dr. Andzelm's training inspired her research in immune functioning in Phelan-McDermid syndrome as well as learn about progress on her current project. You'll also get to hear more about the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Neuropsychiatric Consultation Group! Dr. Andzelm is still recruiting for her study, so check out our Current Open Research page for your opportunity to participate! And remember - she's looking for individuals 10 years+ with and without a history of neuropsychiatric illness! https://pmsf.org/current-open-research/ And for more information about our Neuropsychiatric Consultation Group, a provider-to-provider service, please check out the link below: https://pmsf.org/neuropsychiatric-consultation-group/

We are back with " The Phelan-McDermid Podcast: Sharing Research, Progress, and Hope "! We continue our mini-series featuring the 2023 PMSF Grant Winners! In this episode, Lauren is talking to Dr. Bridgette Moffitt from Clemson University. Dr. Moffitt received the 2023 PMSF Innovation Award for her project titled, “Functional Assessment of Candidate Treatments for Phelan-McDermid Syndrome”. Tune in to hear about her research, which is setting the stage for precision, individualized medicine by testing candidate drugs on cell lines from actual individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome! And don't forget to follow us to never miss an episode!