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Spectrum: Autism Research News

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Genes

Rare or common, inherited or spontaneous, mutations form the core of autism risk.

November 2019
Chromosomes swapping DNA

CRISPR technique tracks genetic activity in real time

by  /  8 November 2019

A new method scans gene expression in live cells and could help scientists study autism genes.

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October 2019
blood in a medical vial, closeup

Molecular signature may lead to blood test for autism

by  /  31 October 2019

Researchers have identified a distinctive pattern of gene expression in the white blood cells of young autistic boys.

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four panels show mouse neurons showing abnormalities

New gene linked to autism, neuron development

by  /  30 October 2019

Mutations in the gene CSDE1 lead to a constellation of developmental delays and conditions, including autism, according to a new study.

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Researchers debut mouse model for new autism gene

by  /  23 October 2019

Mice lacking one copy of a gene called DDX3X have developmental delay and sensory, motor and behavioral problems — similar to those seen in people with a mutation in the gene.

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Mitochondrion, coloured transmission electron micrograph (TEM). Mitochondria are a type of organelle found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. They oxidise sugars and fats to produce energy in a process called respiration. A mitochondrion has two membranes, a smooth outer membrane and a folded inner membrane. The folds of the inner membrane are called cristae, and it is here that the chemical reactions to produce energy take place. Magnification: x62,800 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.

Leaky mitochondria may play central role in fragile X syndrome

by  /  23 October 2019

Some traits of fragile X syndrome may be due to problems with mitochondria, the cell’s energy factories.

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human cell

In-cell sequencing reveals genome’s natural geometry

by  /  23 October 2019

Researchers have developed a method for sequencing the genome of an intact single cell, revealing its spatial arrangement within the nucleus.

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Two pairs of neurons shown in red.

Gene editing rids mice of DNA segment linked to autism

by  /  23 October 2019

Researchers have used a new gene-editing technique to delete a segment of DNA associated with autism and schizophrenia from mouse brain cells.

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Two male finches sitting on roost in cage.

Protein linked to autism may help birds learn songs from elders

by  /  23 October 2019

Turning down the expression of a gene linked to autism leaves zebra finches singing disorganized songs.

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Gene-edited marmosets may mimic Rett syndrome traits

by  /  23 October 2019

Researchers have used the gene-editing tool CRISPR to disable the MECP2 gene in marmoset embryos. The six such marmosets created seem to recapitulate aspects of Rett syndrome.

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UBE3A

Rat model mimics communication problems in Angelman syndrome

by  /  23 October 2019

Rats missing UBE3A, the gene mutated in people with Angelman syndrome, squeak frequently but tend not to be responsive to the play and squeaks of other rats.

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