About Us
The Patrick Wild Centre studies genetic conditions which affect brain development, such as fragile X syndrome, SYNGAP1-related intellectual disability and CDKL5 deficiency disorder. These genetic conditions can be associated with a wide variety of neurodevelopmental differences, including intellectual disability, autism and ADHD, as well as significant physical health problems.
Our Aims
To understand the mechanisms through which genetic conditions affect brain development.
To translate this understanding from laboratory models into the human conditions.
To run clinical trials, so we can test what interventions might help people with these conditions.
To engage with those affected by these conditions and their families, to better understand how to support them.
Our Story
The Patrick Wild Centre was established in 2010 with the generous support of Dr Alfred Wild who studied medicine at Edinburgh, and Gus Alusi and Reem Waines, a family whose son Kenz has fragile X syndrome.
The Centre is named in memory of Dr Wild’s brother, Patrick, who was autistic and in tribute to the brothers’ parents who cared for Patrick throughout his life.
Our People
Our researchers come from many different fields, across the University of Edinburgh.
Fundamental neuroscientists at the Patrick Wild Centre are mainly associated with our sister centre, the Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain (SIDB). SIDB consists of over 40 different principal invesitgators and their lab groups, working across six different sites.
Our clinical researchers are from a variety of disciplines, such as psychiatry, psychology and paediatric neurology. Many also work within the NHS providing direct clincial care to people affected by genetic developmental conditions.
