Seaver Autism Center for Research & Treatment

Revolutionizing Autism Research and Treatment

The Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is the pioneer for employing a genetics-first approach to unravel the complexities of autism spectrum disorder. Founded in 1993 and supported by the Beatrice and Samuel A. Seaver Foundation, our center has evolved into a world-renowned institution, distinguished by its innovative bench-to-bedside methodology. This approach enables us to translate groundbreaking laboratory discoveries into cutting-edge clinical trials, advancing treatment options for individuals affected by autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.

In addition to our expertise in clinical care and community outreach, our multidisciplinary team of expert researchers spans five core areas: rare diseases, epidemiology, pre-clinical research, clinical research, and genetics and genomics. This diverse collaboration allows us to take a comprehensive approach to autism research, from identifying autism-risk genes to developing targeted treatments for autism and for rare disorders that increase the risk for autism, such as ADNP, CHAMP1, CHD8, DDX3X, FOXP1, and Phelan-McDermid syndromes. By focusing on these rare disorders, we aim to uncover major pathways disrupted in autism and translate our findings to benefit individuals with idiopathic autism, positioning ourselves as international leaders in precision therapeutics for autism and related disorders.

The Seaver Autism Center offers unique opportunities for researchers to engage in transformative research that bridges the gap between basic preclinical science and enhanced patient care. Our commitment to scientific excellence is matched by our dedication to community engagement, ensuring that new and improved approaches to autism care reach those who need them most. Through our clinical research studies, which include gold-standard diagnostic assessments provided at no cost to eligible participants, we continue to enhance the diagnosis of autism and related disorders, discover their biological underpinnings, and develop breakthrough treatments that promise to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder.

Our commitment to improving autism care extends beyond research to practical innovations in health care delivery. We have spearheaded initiatives across the Mount Sinai Health System, including the development of sensory toolkits for pediatric emergency departments and the creation of specialized "low stimulation" treatment areas for patients with autism or sensory sensitivities. Through our staff training program, we are educating physicians, nurses, and hospital staff across departments in best practices for treating neurodiverse patients, ensuring comprehensive, sensitive care throughout the health care system.

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MEET THE DIRECTOR

Joseph D Buxbaum, PhD

PROFESSOR | Psychiatry

PROFESSOR | Neuroscience

PROFESSOR | Genetics and Genomic Sciences

Dr. Buxbaum is a highly regarded expert in identifying major risk factors for autism and the co-founder of the Autism Sequencing Consortium.

Read the Message From the Director

OUR FOCUS

Advancing Autism Discovery

From unraveling genetic complexities to pioneering transformative treatments, our relentless pursuit of knowledge is illuminating the path towards a brighter future for individuals with autism and their families.