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CRISPR upregulation of genes; interneuron migration; maternal COVID-19 exposure

Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 30 September.

By Jill Adams
1 October 2024 | 2 min read
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https://doi.org/10.53053/OAIW9838 https://doi.org/10.53053/OAIW9838 - opens a new tab Cite this article
  • Rats with heterozygous SYNGAP1 variants—in which the calcium-binding and GTPase-activating protein domains are deleted—display seizures and reduced exploratory behaviors, similar to animals with haploinsufficiency of the entire SYNGAP1 gene. Spectrum has previously reported on proposed mechanisms to explain traits associated with SYNGAP1 variants. Cell Reports
  • Methods that use CRISPR technology to upregulate genes may depend on cell-specific regulatory elements, the target genes and the guide RNA molecules. Nature Communications
  • The autism-linked gene TRIO alters migration of interneurons and the foundation of cortical inhibition. Spectrum has reported on the range of clinical effects of TRIO variants in people. Molecular Psychiatry
Research image of neurons.
Slow motion: Interneurons missing the autism-linked gene TRIO (right panel), cultured from mouse embryos, migrate shorter distances than control neurons (left panel).
  • The prevalence of autism in women incarcerated in female prisons in England is 13.7 times higher than that in the general population. Spectrum has previously covered autism in prisons. Autism
  • Sleep issues and aggression interact with many aspects of psychological, behavioral and medical conditions, according to a network analysis of links among autism traits. Autism Research
  • Maternal exposure to COVID-19 during pregnancy does not increase the likelihood of autism in babies, according to an analysis of births at a New York City hospital. Spectrum has previously covered concerns that the pandemic might lead to an increase in autism. JAMA Network Open

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