The Gutmann laboratory employs Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) as a genetic platform to characterize the genomic, genetic, cellular, and molecular factors that contribute to the development of nervous system tumors (gliomas and neurofibromas), as well as brain development and behavioral deficits.

Defining these contributing factors represents the first step toward discovering individualized treatments for children and adults with NF1. Moreover, NF1 provides unique opportunities to unravel the complexities of related medical problems in the general population, including adult and childhood brain tumors, nerve tumors, intellectual disabilities, and autism.