Protein Identification in Autism
Many of our clients at I.T.S. have some form of autistic spectrum disorder, so we are always happy to talk about the latest developments in intensive autism speech and language therapy research. The BBC recently reported on the identification of a single protein found in the brain, which they suspect may trigger autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). You can find their report here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/mobile/health-12759587?SThisEM
The team of scientists, based at Duke University in North Carolina, have demonstrated that the protein – named Shank3 – may be involved in ASD. They suggest that the protein may be preventing adequate communication between brain cells, or neurons.
The team created ‘autistic’ mice by mutating the gene that controls production of Shank3. The mice exhibited some relatively ‘typical’ signs of classical ASD; repetitive behaviour and social problems. For example, the mice engaged in repetitious, self-harming grooming behaviour, and avoided social interactions with other mice.
On analysis of the animal’s brains, the team found defects in the circuits connecting two important areas of the brain – the cortex and striatum. It is believed that if these areas are adequately connected, they support the effective regulation of social behaviours and social interaction. This suggests that the researchers have been able to identify the specific parts of the brain’s anatomy and physiology that are responsible for such behaviours. They hope that this knowledge could be used to provide suitable treatments targeting these specific areas.
The researchers suggest that only a small percentage of individuals with ASD have a mutated form of Shank3. They note that human brains are different from and are more complex than the brains of mice, and suggest that other factors will also impact on whether or not an individual will have ASD.
Sarah Bennington March 2011
Written on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services. ITS is a private Speech and Language Therapy service based in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. It specialises in providing highly-skilled Speech and Language Therapists, but also associates with other therapeutic professionals, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Arts Therapists.
