The Patrick Wild Centre for Research into Autism, Fragile X Syndrome and Intellectual Disabilities was established at the University of Edinburgh in 2010.

The mission of the Centre is to understand the neurological basis of, and to test new therapies for, autism, Fragile X Syndrome and intellectual disabilities by fostering collaborations between world-class basic science and clinical research at The University of Edinburgh.

Patrick Wild lived with severe autism during the early part of the 20th century; a time when there was no treatment and little understanding of a disorder that profoundly affected him and his family. With the permission of the Wild family, the University of Edinburgh has established a medical research centre for autism, Fragile X Syndrome and intellectual disabilities in memory of Patrick, and in tribute to his parents who sacrificed so much in caring for him for the 45 years of his life.

“Until now we have had to travel to the USA for specialist help with Kenz’s condition, but this new centre will be a hub for UK patients and their families, so that they too can access the pioneering research that will ultimately transform the treatment of these diseases.” Reem Waines

The goals of the Centre are:

• To identify the genes and protein pathways that cause these disorders.
• To understand the alterations in brain cells that prevent their effective communication in people with these conditions.
• To develop and test therapeutic strategies for these disorders.
• To engage the people affected by these conditions as well as their families and those who support them to better understand their difficulties.