Highlights:
- Some autism-related genes could be associated with cancer
- Anticancer drugs that block the molecular pathways of these genes could be possibly useful in the treatment of autism
- Further studies could throw more light on the complex genetic basis of autism
Using
a computational technique called network diffusion, scientists have found that
some genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be related to
those involved with the development of cancer. The research was
published in Frontiers in Genetics.
Though the importance of
genes in the development of autism has been established, studies have not been
able to boil down to a few genes that can be held responsible. Currently, more than 1000 genes have been
suggested to play a role, some of which appear completely unrelated. At the
same time, not all individuals who carry these genetic variations suffer from
the condition. Many of these gene mutations affect the development of the
brain, including that of the nerve cells, the nerve fibers, and the gaps
between adjacent nerves called synapses.
Scientists have suggested that the interaction between genes could reveal the connection between them in the development of ASD. Genes produce proteins, and the proteins participate in signaling pathways that have multiple effects. Thus several genes could influence the same pathway, the final effects could be changes in the brain that result in ASD.
- Many of the genes were associated with synaptic function and brain development, which are affected in patients with ASD
- Many of the genes were associated with syndromes that affect children with ASD and cause symptoms of hearing and seeing problems, epilepsy, mental retardation and psychiatric conditions. These syndromes included Usher Syndrome, Fechtner Syndrome, Nance-Horan Syndrome, Sanfilippo Syndrome, Prader Willy Syndrome and Down syndrome
- An interesting observation was that some of the genes of the network are normally associated with cancer. This has a possible implication in the treatment of ASD. Anticancer drugs that affect these networks could have a possible effect in ASD and can be explored further
About Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism spectrum disorders are a group of developmental disorders that affect communication, social skill and repetitive behavior. They cannot be cured but the child's life can be improved with medications to control symptoms, and behavioral and communication therapy. Beside genetic factors, environmental factors like exposure of the mother to toxins or poisons may also predispose to the development of the condition.References :
- Mosca E, Bersanelli M, Gnocchi M, Moscatelli M, Castellani G, Milanes L, Mezzelani A. Network-Diffusion Based Prioritization of Autism Risk Genes Identifies Significantly Connected Gene Modules. Front. Genet. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2017.00129
Source: Medindia
Citations
Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:
-
APA
Dr. Simi Paknikar. (2017, September 26). Network of Autism-related Genes Decoded!. Medindia. Retrieved on Aug 19, 2022 from https://www.medindia.net/news/healthinfocus/network-of-autism-related-genes-decoded-173313-1.htm.
-
MLA
Dr. Simi Paknikar. "Network of Autism-related Genes Decoded!". Medindia. Aug 19, 2022. <https://www.medindia.net/news/healthinfocus/network-of-autism-related-genes-decoded-173313-1.htm>.
Chicago
Dr. Simi Paknikar. "Network of Autism-related Genes Decoded!". Medindia. https://www.medindia.net/news/healthinfocus/network-of-autism-related-genes-decoded-173313-1.htm. (accessed Aug 19, 2022).
Harvard
Dr. Simi Paknikar. 2021. Network of Autism-related Genes Decoded!. Medindia, viewed Aug 19, 2022, https://www.medindia.net/news/healthinfocus/network-of-autism-related-genes-decoded-173313-1.htm.
