Bridge Lab: Brain and Behavior in Children with RASopathies

02/15/2026

Excited to share BRIDGE Lab's Dr. Sara K. Pardej newly published work.

We investigated differences in the structure of the cerebellum in youth with NF1 compared to unaffected youth. We found that white matter volume in the cerebellum was larger in youth with NF1, and differences in white matter microstructure were also observed. We also implemented a support vector model to better understand which factors (e.g., cerebellum neuroimaging metrics, neurocognitive) contribute most to distinguishing youth with NF1 from unaffected youth and found that the top three weights were white matter volume, ratings of child mobility, and the neurite density index. These may be underlying mechanisms of cerebellum-mediated neurocognitive deficits in NF1 and should be explored further.

Read it here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12311-026-01961-z

02/14/2026

This week, Dr. Tamar Green's Genetics-First Psychiatry course had the privilege of hosting Lisa Schoyer, founder of RASopathies Network USA.

Lisa shared her personal journey as the mother of Quin, her son Costello syndrome, a rare RASopathy. She shared the challenges families face when navigating complex medical systems and the resilience required to advocate for children with rare genetic conditions. Following Quin's passing, Lisa founded RASopathies Network USA, an organization that now serves as a vital resource for families and researchers working to understand these related genetic conditions.

Thank you, Lisa, for your generosity in sharing Quin's story and for the incredible work you continue to do through RASopathies Network. You have inspired the next generation of researchers and clinicians. RASopathies Network

02/09/2026

Behind every data point is a real family, a real child, and a real story. At BRIDGE Lab, we’re constantly reminded that research is about people first. We’re grateful to our community partners who help keep our work grounded in what actually matters.

If you’re interested in learning more about our studies or how to get involved, feel free to reach out or visit our lab page!

https://med.stanford.edu/bridge-lab.html

02/01/2026

February is Noonan Syndrome Awareness Month!

At BRIDGE Lab, we study how genetic differences impact brain development and mental health. This month, we honor individuals with Noonan Syndrome and their families, raising awareness of the unique challenges they face.

01/21/2026

We’re proud to share this powerful reflection from Penny’s Flight Foundation following the RASopathies Research Summit we hosted a few months ago.

This convening brought together scientists, clinicians, foundations, and families around a shared question: How do we move the needle for meaningful interventions in NF and other RASopathies? From basic science to clinical care, the day centered collaboration, urgency, and most importantly, the children and families at the heart of this work.

We’re deeply grateful to Penny’s Flight Foundation for their partnership and for opening the summit by sharing Penny’s story.

Read the full blog here:

Reflections from Stanford University School of Medicine: Penny’s Flight at the RASopathies Research Summit On September 17th, I represented Penny’s Flight Foundation at Stanford University School of Medicine where the BRIDGE Lab (Brain Imaging, Development, Genetics) group hosted the RASopathies...

01/07/2026

Remote study opportunity for children with Noonan Syndrome!

Would you like to participate in a study from the comfort of your own home? Join our study, which focuses on children with Noonan Syndrome, aged 5-16, and their parents.

The study involves a non-invasive saliva test for the child and both parents, as well as a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation for the child.

You can conveniently participate from the comfort of your own home. We offer a $50 honorarium and a thorough neuropsychological evaluation for your participation.

Learn more and check your eligibility here: http://redcap.link/nf1_study

12/18/2025

As we close out the year, we’re reflecting on the progress made through collaboration, careful science, and shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and families. We’re grateful to our research participants, community partners, trainees, and colleagues who contributed their time, insight, and trust. Looking ahead to building on this work in the year to come.

10/22/2025

We were honored to have Dr. Tamar Green represent the BRIDGE Lab at the Banbury Center at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory this week. The meeting focused on Cognition and Behavior in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and brought together leading researchers and clinicians to discuss recent advances and future directions in the field.

Thank you to The Banbury Center for fostering thoughtful dialogue and collaboration aimed at improving understanding and care for individuals with NF1.

08/27/2025

BRIDGE Lab’s Julia Plank, PhD recently presented her poster, “Functional brain networks predictive of cognitive function in children with Noonan Syndrome” at the 2025 Summer Conference on The Changing Brain.

We’re proud of Julia for sharing this important work with the scientific community!

08/25/2025

Missed our recent BRIDGE Lab webinar on Managing Parent Burnout in Rare Genetic Populations? You can now watch it anytime: https://youtu.be/eQ7n3rPMXME

Featuring Dr. Philip Fisher and Dr. Alan Atkins, this session shares research insights and practical tools to support parents and caregivers of children with rare genetic conditions.

BRIDGE Lab hosted Dr. Philip Fisher and Dr. Alan Atkins for a webinar discussing current data and available tools to managing parent burnout, focusing on on ...

08/14/2025

If you haven’t already seen it, we have an on-demand webinar for parents and caregivers of kids with RASopathies focused on navigating the challenges and opportunities of adolescence.

Dr. Sara Pardej from BRIDGE Lab shares a brief presentation, followed by answers to questions about fostering independence, emotional well-being, and the transition to adulthood.

Watch anytime here:

This webinar is for parents and caregivers of children with RASopathies, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of adolescence. Dr. Sara Pardej, a post...

08/12/2025

Join Stanford Bridge Lab: Brain and Behavior in Children with RASopathies on Monday, August 19 from 1 to 2 p.m. for a free webinar, Managing Parent Burnout in Rare Genetic Populations.
In this informative and supportive session, attendees will explore current data on parental stress as it relates to household demographics and access to resources.
Click the link below to register:
https://bit.ly/47oP73Y