Mental retardation scientifically termed as intellectual disability (ID) may be often viewed as permanent and untreatable. Well, a ray of hope seems to have arrived in the following discovery. In a major breakthrough, investigators found that Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common inherited form of intellectual disability can be treated.
While conducting the study, more than 100 studies were examined. It then appeared, that FXS is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability. It probably occurs in an array of forms, ranging from mild learning disabilities to more severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. Apparently, FXS is the most common cause of autism or autistic-like behaviors.
Aileen Healy and colleagues are examining the changes occurring in cells and molecules of the body due to a mutation in the Fragile X Mental Retardation 1 gene. This gene supposedly manages a key protein that is important for nerve function in the brain. It possibly does not work properly in FXS. Understanding the biological effects of the mutation can purportedly aid in treating FXS.
The research is published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience.