Development, Environment, and Resilience (DEaR) Lab

Aging-related research at the Laboratory involves neurobehavioral development in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). NF1 is a genetic disease affecting approximately 1 in 2,700 people globally. Individuals with NF1 often develop various tumors and exhibit more neurobehavioral problems (e.g., cognitive deficits and learning difficulties) than the general population. We identify cognitive aging patterns and predictors of cognitive function among middle-aged and older adults with NF1 (MOA). We identify subgroups of patients at greater risk for cognitive problems and explore psychosocial factors (e.g., psychological wellbeing, social integration, personality) that help predict cognitive aging among MOA. Such knowledge will help MOA, their families, and care providers to develop more realistic expectations, identify promising intervention targets to improve cognitive health, and advocate for patient-centered care.