CHLA Neuroimmunology Expert Jonathan Santoro Featured in Washington Post Article About Breakthrough Discovery in Down Syndrome Regression Disorder
Jonathan D. Santoro, MD, Director of the Neuroimmunology Program in the Neurological Institute at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, was featured in a May 12 Washington Post article about Down syndrome regression disorder (DSRD). The condition causes a loss of communication and catatonic state in otherwise healthy individuals with Down syndrome and was previously thought to be a psychiatric disorder. Dr. Santoro discovered that DSRD may be an inflammatory condition, and he has been having great success treating the disorder with immunotherapy. He’s also been collaborating with other specialists in the disorder and is co-Principal Investigator on the first clinical research trial for this therapy. The article details parents’ search for answers about this devastating condition, and the experts around the country working toward a cure.