Hong Xu, Ph.D., Professor, Ph.D. Supervisor, and Principal Investigator at the Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Nanchang University.

My primary research focus is on neurodevelopmental disorders and regeneration, with a current emphasis on autism (also known as autism spectrum disorder, ASD). ASD is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized primarily by impaired social communication, restricted interests and repetitive behaviors and interests. Symptoms manifest in early childhood, and the prognosis is poor for most affected children. Often, they do not develop the capacity for independent living, learning, or working in adulthood, requiring long-term support from family and society. The global prevalence of autism is approximately 1%, and small-scale data from China suggests a rate close to 0.7%. Autism lacks biological diagnostic markers, and there are currently no pharmacological treatments. Adjuvant therapies can be somewhat effective but rarely improve core symptoms.

Our research group employs methods and techniques from molecular and cellular biology, genetics, pharmacology, and behavioral science. We investigate how autism-related genes impact neurodevelopment at the molecular, cellular, and neural network levels. We also explore how interactions between the brain and peripheral organs during early development may ultimately contribute to the development of autism. Using zebrafish as our primary model organism, we have established several autism models. We have discovered that mutations in autism-related genes lead to autism-like developmental defects and behavioral impairments, and we are currently investigating the underlying pathogenic mechanisms and potential therapeutic approaches.

• 1992-1996 BS, Shandong Normal University
• 1996-1999 MS, China Pharmaceutical University
• 1999-2004 PhD, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

• [1] 2023- Institute of Biomedical Innovation, Nanchang University Nanchang University
• [2] 2011-2023 Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University Nanchang University
• [3] 2004-2010 Postdoctor, University of Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania