New information about nueral stem cell development and the lack of a protein called myocyte enhancer factor 2C (MEFC2) resulted in smaller brains, fewer nerve cells, and similar behaviors in mice. This work represents the first direct link between a developmental disorder of neural stem cells and the subsequent onset of autism.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) recently funded a study that has led to a better understanding of Rett syndrome and the similarities it carries with autism. Rett syndrome is a genetic disorder that can cause many behaviors and disabling symptoms. It is caused by deficiencies of the MECP2 gene and occurs almost exclusively in girls.