Research The Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics is a leader in research on optimizing future health, well-being, and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. In collaboration with other scientists at the university and throughout the United States, our investigations have elucidated possible causes and characteristics of Autism and other Intellectual Disabilities, identified effective treatments for individuals affected by these disorders, and improved standards of medical care. Long-running studies by our faculty and international colleagues document effects of exposure to methylmercury on child development. We are actively seeking to make further advances in these areas with the benefit of multiple research awards that we have received from the National Institutes of Health, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau and private foundations such as Autism Speaks. Current Research Activities Autism Spectrum Disorders Effects of Methylmercury Exposure (Seychelles Child Development Study) Aging and Developmental Disabilities Care Coordination: Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Human Behavior Assessment Core Research Findings Children's Hyperactivity and Autism Research Treatment Study (CHARTS) Dietary Treatment of Young Children with Autism: Behavioral Effects of the Gluten Free and Casein Free Diet The Medical and Behavioral Characteristics in Children with Down Syndrome Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) Research Findings Clinical Trials Clinical trials are tests of the safety and effectiveness of new interventions. Learn more about Children and Clinical Studies. See clinical trials for children with developmental disabilities in the Clinical Trials Database.