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Stem Cell Mutation Linked to Autism
, 07 01st, 2008
A recent breakthrough scientific study has shown that neural stem cell development may be linked to Autism. The study demonstrated that mice lacking the myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C) protein in neural stem cells had smaller brains, fewer nerve cells and showed behaviors similar to those seen in humans with a form of autism known as Rett Syndrome.
This work represents the first direct link between a developmental disorder of neural stem cells and the subsequent onset of autism.
The research team was led by Stuart A. Lipton, M.D., Ph.D., a clinical neurologist and Professor and Director of the Del E. Webb Neuroscience, Aging and Stem Cell Research Center at Burnham.
“These results give us a good hint of how to look at Rett Syndrome and potentially other forms of autism in humans,” said Dr. Lipton. “Having identified a mutation that causes this defect, we can track what happens. Perhaps we can correct it in a mouse, and if so, eventually correct it in humans.”
At the close of this autism research, the researchers will continue to follow for six months all participants who respond favorably to treatment to examine the safety, effectiveness and tolerability of long-term treatment
3 Responses to “Stem Cell Mutation Linked to Autism”
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July 9th, 2008 at 12:14 am
Stem Cell Mutation Linked to Autism | Help With Autism…
I know how hard it is to deal with an autistic person but with the help of this site, I know I can provide the best. Thanks for all the information and resources that this site offers and all the great products that it shares….
July 9th, 2008 at 12:17 am
Stem Cell Mutation Linked to Autism | Help With Autism…
I know how hard it is to deal with an autistic person but with the help of this site, I know I can provide the best. Thanks for all the information and resources that this site offers and all the great products that it shares….
March 26th, 2011 at 7:35 am
Corfu island…
Very interesting info, especially about Corfu…