New insights that link Fragile X syndrome and autism spectrum disorders

(VIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)) Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability, as well as the most frequent monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorders. FXS is caused by absence or incorrect production of protein FMRP (Fragile X mental retardation protein). VIB/KU Leuven scientists, in collaboration with Tor Vergata University and VU University of Amsterdam have pinpointed a novel role that FMRP plays during embryonic development of brain cortex.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: Global & Universal Source Type: news