February 2016
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Autism and autism spectrum conditions comprise a spectrum, in which most cases cannot be attributed to a single cause. In some cases, however, autism diagnoses have known genetic roots. Mutations in the Shank3 gene, which encodes an important synaptic protein, account for approximately 1% of autism cases. The Simons Center for the Social Brain supports […]
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Neuroscientists reverse autism symptoms Turning on a gene later in life can restore typical behavior in mice. Source [Anne Trafton | MIT News Office, February 17, 2016] Autism has diverse genetic causes, most of which are still unknown. About 1 percent of people with autism are missing a gene called Shank3, which is critical for brain […]
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Human cells integrate and function after injection into fetal mice The invasive study of cellular and molecular pathogenesis in humans is in most cases impossible. Patient-derived and other human cells can, however, be studied intensively in host animals, enabling researchers to observe cell- and organ-specific phenotypes at close range and at fine scale using invasive […]
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New Approaches Yield Insights into Details of Complex Disorder Most autism spectrum disorders differ from syndromic autisms, in which patient phenotype follows from inheritance of or de novo mutation at a single genetic locus. Occurrence of these non-syndromic autisms has been linked to multiple mutations at different genetic loci, with causal relationships remaining elusive. Other […]
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Maternal immune activation acts through interleukin-17a to promote ASD-like phenotypes in mice Interleukin-17a (IL-17a) is a protein produced by activated T cells as part of the immune system’s response to infection. It promotes inflammation, and is associated with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. Elevated IL-17a levels have been found in autistic children, and the IL17A gene […]
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Pinpointing loneliness in the brain Scientists identify cells that represent feelings of isolation. Source [Anne Trafton | MIT News Office, February 11, 2016] Humans, like all social animals, have a fundamental need for contact with others. This deeply ingrained instinct helps us to survive; it’s much easier to find food, shelter, and other necessities with a […]