Researchers have unraveled how mutations in a gene can lead to an incurable neurodevelopmental disorder that causes abnormal brain development in newborns and infants.
The WEHI study is the first to prove that a protein called Trabid helps control neuronal development, and that mutations to this protein can lead to microcephaly —a condition where a baby’s brain is smaller than expected.
It’s hoped the milestone findings will provide a deeper understanding into the protein’s impact on healthy development and lead to treatments that can slow or stop the development of microcephaly and potentially other neurological disorders.
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