What is the Emory Study of Adult Learning?
This is a study of a specific gene called FMR1 and its effect on learning and behavior in men and women. We are also studying ways the FMR1 gene may affect ovarian function and the timing of menopause in women.

A movie describing the Emory Study of Adult Learning is available here (QuickTime format).

What is the FMR1 gene?
The FMR1 gene is located on the X chromosome. Everyone has some form of this gene. It occurs in basically one of four forms: normal, intermediate, premutation and full mutation. The full mutation form is rare and causes Fragile X Syndrome, a type of mental retardation and behavioral difficulties. In this study we are trying to understand the more common forms of this gene.

Who is eligible for the study?
Two groups of people are being asked to help with this study. Group A consists of adults age 18-50 who live within a 100 mile radius of Atlanta. Group B will be made up of adults age 18-50 in the Southeastern US who have a family member with fragile X Syndrome. We hope that 15,000 adults will choose to take part in the study.

If you would like to learn more about how to participate and believe you fall into Group A click here.
If you would like to learn more about how to participate and believe you fall into Group B click here.