Down syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is the leading cause of genetically defined intellectual disability. In the brain, Down syndrome results in alterations in the connections between neurons and a reduction in the development of new neurons (neurogenesis) that usually occurs during learning.

In a new study, researchers led by Laura Gasparini at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia in Genova, Italy report that lithium restores neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Lithium also significantly improved the performance of Down syndrome mice in tasks measuring contextual learning, spatial memory, and object discrimination.

These results suggest that lithium-based therapies may help Down syndrome patients.

The research is published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.