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A group of molecular biologists from Xiamen University presented evidence of a link between genetic mutations and the development of autism. The researchers determined that changes in a certain section of DNA cause incorrect activation of the TrkB enzyme, which in turn leads to excessive activity of excitatory neurons, bigasia.ru reports.
During the experiments, the scientists worked with mice that had a point mutation of the MDGA2 gene, a common genetic feature in patients with hereditary forms of autism. A significant result of the study was the successful prevention of the development of autistic disorders in mice by affecting the TrkB enzyme.
Biologists say the discovery opens up prospects for developing effective therapy for hereditary forms of autism. According to statistics from the World Health Organization, autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in approximately one in a hundred children worldwide.