Proper Folding Is Important for a Protein Associated with Seizures

Proper folding is important for a protein associated with seizures

Just as folds are important in the ancient art of origami, they are also vital for the function of many proteins. Mutations in a protein associated with conditions such as seizures and autism spectrum disorder prevent it from folding correctly and hinder its movement to the cell surface, where it would normally do its job.

Convergent effects of autism-linked genes in zebrafish; and more

Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 9 June.

Proper Folding Is Important for a Protein Associated with Seizures

Mutations in a protein linked to seizures and autism can disrupt its folding and function. A new study in The FASEB Journal shows small molecules may help restore proper protein shape and activity, offering hope for targeted treatments of SLC6A1-related disorders.