Researchers have identified that the loss of a small DNA segment, responsible for producing the CPEB4 protein, may be related to up to 80% of autism cases. This discovery opens the way for new therapeutic approaches aimed at restoring the function of this protein and, potentially, reversing ASD symptoms.
The CPEB4 protein regulates the expression of hundreds of genes in the brain, and its dysfunction can lead to changes in neuronal development. The research suggests that administering the eight amino acids encoded by this DNA sequence may restore the protein's function.
Although still in the early stages, these findings offer hope for the development of more effective treatments for ASD, including in adults.
Reference: Méndez, R., & Salvatella, X. et al. (2024). “Las 24 letras cruciales en el surgimiento del autismo. El País. Available at: https://elpais.com/ciencia/2024-12-04/las-24-letras-cruciales-en-el-surgimiento-del-autismo-gcaaggacatatgggcgaaggaga.html