Researchers+Link+Early+Stem+Cell+Mutation+To+Autism

[|Researchers Link Early Stem Cell Mutation To Autism] July 1, 2008 In a recent study by Scientist at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research, they have possible discovered a cause of autism. The scientist, after various studies, have potentially discovered that a protein cell called myocyte enhancer factor 2C or MEF2C could be the reason for a form of autism called Rett Syndrome. Rett Syndrome occurs more frequently with girls than boys. The affects are poor brain development, repetitive hand motions, altered anxiety behaviors and the inability to speak. The MEF2C cell turns specific genes on to begin the process of changing stem cells into nerve cells. When the scientist removed the protein cell from various rats, the rats portrayed abnormal anxiety-like behaviors and decreased cognitive functions which are similar features to Rett Syndrome. This break through study could send scientist in the right direction to improve the understanding or cure the many types of autism. mparker March 14, 2010