Senator McCain's choice of running mate Sarah Palin has her share of supporters. Many feel that her experience with special needs will add value, and put a spotlight on the holes and lack of funding in our country's special education systems. Others that are not in her corner feel that her past record on special education is at best, mixed.

The use of minocycline may be a beneficial drug treatment for those with autism as a result of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). Researchers have noted that testing of minocycline in mice reduces MMP levels in ice and allows for the neurons in the brain to run more efficiently which resulted in improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety.

An article appearing in ScientificBlogging offers a history of autism that all of us are aware of, from the challenges that many of us witnessed during our child's early development, and continue to struggle with today as they grow into adults. Discussed are the advances in research, the role of gene mutations and synapse formations in the brain.

Some exciting findings surround Fragile X and the many effects this can have on the brain. From autism and mental retardation to anxiety, early menopause, dymentia and ADHD, Fragile X can be a contributing factor.

A consortium of researched led by scientists at Houston's Baylor College of Medicine have found that a lack of both the fragile X syndrome gene and a related gene is most likely the culprit in disturbing the sleep patterns in many diagnosed with autism. they have found mice that were deficient in the fragile X gene (FMR1) and a similar gene (FXR2) had no rhythm to the wake and sleep patterns.

A certain protein, essential to neurons communication process with the brain is greatly hindered when Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is present. Scientists discovered new information in how FXS interferes with signaling between the nucleus of nuerons and the synapse. Researchers will release their findings in the June 10th issue of Developmental Cell.

A recent drug screening method utilizing fruit flies has brought to light several drugs and small molecules that reverse the features of Fragile X Syndrome one of the leading known causes of Autism.