Using mouse models in two separate studies, researchers from University of California, San Diego, and the Institute of Science and Technology in Klosterneuberg have been able to pinpoint the effects of a gene associated with autism.

February 26, 2019

The SETD5 gene has been identified as a gene involved in autism spectrum disorders. In two separate studies, researchers investigated mice who were missing a copy of the SETD5 gene, and were able to link the gene to the condition’s traits. One set of mice missing SETD5 had neurons that made fewer connections than usual. These mice showed social deficits, hyperactivity and memory problems. The other set of mice missing SETD5 had altered gene expression during brain development. These mice were unusually small and had communication and memory problems. Together these two studies have solidified the role of the SETD5 gene in autism spectrum disorders.

Source: Spectrum News