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People born with heart defects who later struggle in school are a step closer to having more insight on a possible link between the two.
University of Utah researchers are preparing to take a closer look at the behavior and genetic profiles of children born with congenital heart defects. Researchers estimate that over half of such students have behavioral problems and fall behind academically.
The U. was awarded $6.4 million from the National Institutes of Health, the school announced Tuesday, to identify the causes and possible treatments of neurological disorders.
The body of research is growing.
To date, it suggests that the same mutations provoking heart defects also can cause central nervous system disorders, said Martin Tristani-Firouzi, a pediatric cardiologist and associate professor of pediatrics, in a prepared statement.
"We think it's the combined genetic insult that results in patients having developmental delay," Tristani-Firouzi said.
Researchers plan to study detailed accounts of patients' behavior and development as newborns, toddlers, just before kindergarten and at early adolescence.
They also will analyze genetic data using the grant that is part of the NIH's Bench to Bassinet initiative.
"Not only does that give us an opportunity to intervene early, but it also allows us to track the kids to see if genetics leads to certain developmental outcomes," said Sarah Winter, associate professor of pediatrics and the center's medical director.
U. scientists believe the mix of clinical information and genomics will help researchers pinpoint the best course of care for patients.