Oxford University launches neuro disorder video campaign

Launched by the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Oxford, the Genes, Brains, and Breakthroughs campaign aims to raise awareness through family-informed, animated video resources.

The short animations explain conditions affecting children’s brain development in an accessible way, covering neurodevelopment, genetic diagnoses and new therapies like gene therapy.

The series was created with input from families, clinicians, researchers and patient advocacy groups, and is designed to make complex science clear and relatable.

Dr Narjes Rohani, the campaign’s lead researcher, said: “Families consistently tell us that accessible information and public understanding are among their greatest unmet needs.

“This campaign is about opening up conversations around neurodevelopmental disorders, reducing stigma, and ensuring that advances in therapeutic genomics are communicated in a way that is meaningful and empowering for families and society as a whole.”

Helen Newton, from Tamworth, was involved in the project after her own family’s difficult journey with genetic testing.

She said: “My experience of genetic testing for my son was extremely difficult.

“Five years ago, we requested testing for our now 31-year-old son, but it took more than two years for the results to arrive in a letter through the post stating that he had SLC6A1 and SCN2A gene mutations.

“The letter simply said that our neurologist would have discussed this with us. We were referred for genetic counselling, but then faced another wait of almost a year.

“One of the biggest challenges with rare genetic conditions is that many healthcare professionals simply do not have enough information about them, so families often have to search elsewhere for support and guidance.

She welcomed the campaign and its resources.

Adding: “I did not want other families to go through the same experience we did, which is why I wanted to support the Genes, Brains, and Breakthroughs project.

“These animations will help families better understand rare genetic conditions and emerging research in a way that is accessible and reassuring.

“Being involved in developing the videos also gave me the opportunity to advocate for families without a scientific or genetic background.

“I was able to help identify when explanations became too technical and ensure the information remained clear, understandable, and genuinely useful for parents and carers.

The 16 animated videos were developed by the MRC Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE) in Therapeutic Genomics, based within Oxford’s Department of Paediatrics, and shaped by families’ real questions and experiences.