Neurexins and Autism

Neurexins had come up in my Cell Neuroscience course this semester. Connection to Autism. But of course!!

Neurexins are a family of proteins that play important roles in synaptic function. They are involved in the formation, maintenance, and plasticity of synapses, which are the junctions between neurons that allow them to communicate with each other. Mutations in neurexin genes have been linked to a number of neurodevelopmental disabilities, including autism.

A few reasons why neurexin genes might be associated with autism.

• disrupt in function of synapses (& communication between neurons), which could contribute to the autistic social and communication challenges
• disruption in brain development as neurexin genes expressed early in brain development, and play important roles in the formation of neural circuits.
• impact on function of other genes as they interact with a number of other proteins.

More research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms by which mutations in neurexin genes mutations contribute to autism.

Empathy is the art of putting yourself in someone else's shoes

Towards a more Humane Society. Contemplation, one line a day. This month Empathy

 

Severe Weather Nashville - Winter Edition

Nashville sure has a lot of severe weather alerts. This is the running tab for Winter (Dec 21 - Mar 20). 

Empathy is the magic that turns strangers into friends

Contemplation, one line a day.Towards a more humane society, an empathic society.