Thomas A. Jongens, Ph.D.

Thomas A. Jongens, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Genetics at the Perelman School of Medicine. The Jongens lab studies Fragile X Syndrome and other ASD disorders using Drosophila and mouse genetic models. The overall goal of the Jongens’ lab is to develop relevant genetic models of autism related genes and use a multifaceted approach that includes genetics, behavioral and cognitive testing, molecular and pharmacological studies to identify potential treatments for each model. The Jongens lab is seeking ways to treat and reverse issues associated with autism, even in adults. He has over 30 years of experience using Drosophila as a model organism and has been using Drosophila to study autism for the last 15 years. His lab also uses mouse models of autism to validate findings from the Drosophila models, an important step for preclinical evaluation of potential treatments.