A study by Daniele Piomelli identifying brain chemicals that improved symptoms of fragile X syndrome was selected as one of the 10 major research achievements funded by Brain & Behavior Research Foundation grants in 2012. Piomelli, UC Irvine’s Louise Turner Arnold Chair in the Neurosciences, and Olivier Manzoni of France’s INSERM found that boosting natural, marijuana-like chemicals in the brain can improve transmission between neurons and potentially address behavioral issues related to fragile X syndrome, the most common known genetic cause of autism. Piomelli and Manzoni’s study is among more than 200 supported by BBRF grants last year and is the only one in the top 10 based in Southern California. Piomelli is one of the world’s leading endocannabinoid researchers, and his work is revealing new treatment approaches for anxiety, pain, depression and obesity.