Autism is a condition that affects how people communicate, behave, and connect with others. It’s quite common, affecting about 1 in every 59 children. Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls.
Even though many people have autism, scientists still don’t completely understand what causes it. But new research from Northwestern University may help answer some important questions.
Scientists there discovered how changes in certain genes might lead to autism. Their study looked at how problems in early brain development can stop brain cells from connecting the right way.
In the brain, cells talk to each other through small links called synapses. These are like tiny bridges that let brain cells send messages to each other. Synapses are important for learning, memory, and everyday thinking.
When there are fewer synapses, brain cells can’t share information well, which can cause learning and behavior problems. These are some of the same challenges people with autism face.
One of the main genes the scientists studied is called ANK3. This gene makes a protein called ankyrin-G. Ankyrin-G helps brain cells grow small branches called dendritic spines. These are the places where synapses form. Without enough dendritic spines, brain cells have trouble making connections.
Another protein that plays a big role is Usp9X. This protein helps keep ankyrin-G stable and working correctly. If Usp9X doesn’t work properly, ankyrin-G levels drop. That means fewer dendritic spines, fewer synapses, and weaker brain connections.
The scientists found that this problem happens during an important time right after birth. That’s when the brain is growing fast and building many new connections. If the Usp9X protein isn’t doing its job during this time, the brain cells miss their chance to connect well. This can lead to difficulties in thinking, learning, and social behavior later in life.
To test their ideas, the researchers used mice. They found that mice with low ankyrin-G had fewer synapses in their brains. These mice also had trouble learning and showed behavior problems as they grew older. Their brains looked similar to what scientists have seen in people with autism.
This research suggests that changes in the Usp9X gene might be one reason why autism happens. When this gene doesn’t work right, brain cells can’t form enough connections. This might explain why some people with autism have challenges with learning and social interaction.
The study was led by scientist Peter Penzes and was published in the journal Neuron. It gives researchers a better picture of how autism might begin in the brain. Even though this is still early research, it could lead to better ways to find autism early or new treatments that help brain cells connect better.
Learning more about how proteins like ankyrin-G and Usp9X work gives us hope. In the future, doctors might be able to support healthy brain growth by helping these proteins work better. That could make a big difference for people with autism.
This study is an important step in understanding the biology behind autism. With more research, we may be able to offer better help and support to people on the autism spectrum.
If you care about autism, please read studies about food additives and ADHD, and natural fixes for ADHD.
For more health information, please see recent studies about nutrition’s role in managing ADHD, and this type of food may contribute to autism.
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