The Molecular Roots Of Down Syndrome Unraveled

What is it about the extra chromosome inherited in Down syndrome - chromosome 21 - that alters brain and body development? Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute (Sanford-Burnham) have new evidence that points to a protein called sorting nexin 27, or SNX27. SNX27 production is inhibited by a molecule encoded on chromosome 21. The study, published in Nature Medicine, shows that SNX27 is reduced in human Down syndrome brains. The extra copy of chromosome 21 means a person with Down syndrome produces less SNX27 protein, which in turn disrupts brain function...
Source: Health News from Medical News Today - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Pediatrics / Children's Health Source Type: news