Mutations of the X-linked genes encoding neuroligins NLGN3 and NLGN4 are associated with autism.

Journal: Nature Genetics
Published:
Abstract

Many studies have supported a genetic etiology for autism. Here we report mutations in two X-linked genes encoding neuroligins NLGN3 and NLGN4 in siblings with autism-spectrum disorders. These mutations affect cell-adhesion molecules localized at the synapse and suggest that a defect of synaptogenesis may predispose to autism.

Authors
Stéphane Jamain, Hélène Quach, Catalina Betancur, Maria Råstam, Catherine Colineaux, I Gillberg, Henrik Soderstrom, Bruno Giros, Marion Leboyer, Christopher Gillberg, Thomas Bourgeron
Relevant Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder