H.R. 3491 — DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2025

This section establishes the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project (i.e., INvestigation of Co-occurring conditions across the Lifespan to Understand Down syndromE Project) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct research, training, and investigation related to Down syndrome (i.e., trisomy 21). The program requires (1) high-risk, high-reward research on trisomy 21 effects on human development and health; (2) lifespan research including cohort studies on co-occurring conditions and new interventions; (3) expanded clinical trials inclusive of or targeted to individuals with Down syndrome; (4) research on biological mechanisms of anomalies, dysfunction, and stunted growth; (5) research to improve diagnosis and treatment of co-occurring conditions including biomarkers; (6) research on causes and treatment of elevated co-occurring conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, and autoimmunity; and (7) research, training, and investigation to improve quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. This section further directs NIH to coordinate Down syndrome activities across its institutes and centers (including through priority-setting reviews), prioritize nonduplicative research, consult stakeholders such as patient advocates, and submit biennial reports to specified congressional committees cataloging funded research, participating institutes or centers, and any resulting real-world evidence for clinical research and medical care.