We are excited to announce the launch of FAST’s new electronic journal, FAST-DART (FAST-Data, Analysis, Reviews, and Techniques), dedicated to making all data related to Angelman syndrome (AS) research accessible. This journal will also serve as a platform for researchers to share specific research findings, provide instruction on new and technically challenging experimental procedures, and offer reviews of specific areas of ongoing AS research. This initiative will encourage future scientific collaboration and allow others to build upon the discoveries of those who came before them. It reflects our ongoing commitment to transparency, collaboration, and the advancement of scientific knowledge.
A key focus of this journal is the publication of all data, including negative or null results. Negative data is an essential part of the scientific process, and by making it publicly available, we can avoid unnecessary replication of experiments, saving valuable resources and accelerating progress toward a treatment for AS. Every experiment, whether it confirms or disproves a hypothesis, provides valuable insights. Unfortunately, this type of data is often omitted from traditional research publications, resulting in unnecessary replication, wasting valuable donor dollars, and delaying the progress of programs by years. Our goal is to create a culture where no data is hidden, and every finding contributes to the collective knowledge base, expanding a growing literature repository and fostering like-minded collaborations.
This is especially critical in specialized fields like rare disease research, and particularly in AS research, where each piece of data can have profound implications. Research in these areas must be as open and accessible as possible, ensuring that all discoveries, whether successful or not, are shared broadly. Science should never be conducted behind closed doors, especially when it is funded by the hard work of our community—through the efforts of families, caregivers, and our tax dollars. Therefore, our new journal reflects our belief that the open sharing of knowledge is the key to advancing breakthroughs that can transform lives.
We invite all researchers working in the field to submit their data and findings to the journal, knowing their work will contribute to a larger effort that promotes transparency, collaboration, and meaningful scientific progress for all individuals living with Angelman syndrome. Together, we can build a more open, efficient, and impactful research environment for all.
For more information or questions, email science@cureangelman.org.