California, January 19 (ONA): A groundbreaking study has shed new light on the genetic link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and epilepsy, highlighting the role of the neuropilin-2 (NRP2) gene in brain function and development.
The study, conducted by neuroscientist Viji Santhakumar and her research team at the University of California, was published in the renowned journal Nature Molecular Psychiatry. The research delves into how disruptions in the NRP2 gene affect neural communication and contribute to both autism and epilepsy.
Key Findings of the Study
The researchers developed a specialized mouse model to analyze the effects of deleting the NRP2 gene in inhibitory neurons, which play a crucial role in balancing brain activity. Their findings revealed that the absence of NRP2 disrupts the proper migration of neurons, leading to an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory signals in the brain.
This imbalance is a major factor contributing to autism-like behaviors, including social interaction difficulties and repetitive actions. Additionally, the study found that these neural disruptions significantly increase the risk of seizures, which explains the strong correlation between autism and epilepsy in many individuals.
Implications for Future Treatments
By understanding how the NRP2 gene affects brain circuits, the study opens up new possibilities for targeted therapies. Researchers believe that by focusing on specific developmental phases, it may be possible to develop treatments that restore neural balance and reduce symptoms of both autism and epilepsy.
This discovery marks an important step toward personalized medical approaches, where future treatments could be designed to address the underlying genetic causes of these neurological conditions.
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