Ning Cheng, PhD
Ning completed her PhD training in neuroscience at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, with the main work published in the journal Nature, and was awarded the prestigious Young Investigator Award. She did her postdoctoral training at the National Institutes of Health of the United States, focusing on neurological disorders. She started an independent research at the University of Calgary in June 2021. The overarching goal of her research program is to elucidate the mechanisms and to identify potential therapeutics for autism and related conditions such as Fragile X Syndrome. Autism is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions both in Canada and worldwide.
“It causes significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. Fragile X Syndrome is the leading cause of autism and intellectual disability due to changes in a single gene. To achieve our goal, we utilize animal models of these conditions. We perform in vivo recording and modulation of brain activities, combined with simultaneous behavioral assessment. In addition, we collect tissue for biochemical, electrophysiological, molecular, and anatomical analysis. Importantly, we test the effects of pharmacological reagents, including repurposed drugs to target key signaling pathways, as well as neuromodulation approaches to modify phenotypes of the animal models. These translational studies will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms of autism and related disorders in a manner that is difficult to achieve in human populations.”
This new knowledge will lead to development of novel therapeutic approaches for these conditions, and to changes in practice and policy in ways that improve health outcomes of the affected individuals, ultimately helping them to reach their full potential.
