Cellular and molecular understanding of Foxg1 syndrome pathologies in animal and cellular models

Using CRISPR-Cas9 and in vitro culture of iPSC-derived neural cell lines, the aim of this project is to produce accurate animal and cellular models of the ASD-associated condition, FOXG1 Syndrome and understand the biology of the defect across development. Characterization of these models will be done at molecular, cellular and behavioural levels. By studying the phenotype associated with specific alterations in Foxg1 we hope to identify pathophysiological mechanisms that may be common across the entire spectrum of autism disorders. Furthermore, comparison of animal and cellular models should provide information regarding the translational potential of such models.