Today The New York Times published a front page story titled “Promise Seen in Drug for Retardation Syndrome.” In high school and college I did my best to avoid science classes. Thank goodness we have people who work for us that summarized the highlights and significance of how this relates to autism:
Drug for Fragile X Syndrome Overview – April 30, 2010
* There has been a breakthrough on an experimental drug that substantially improves behaviors associated with Fragile X syndrome, some also associated with autism, such as hyperactivity, repetitive motions, social withdrawal and inappropriate speech.
* Approximately 30% of individuals diagnosed with Fragile X are on the autism spectrum, and approximately 3% of all individuals diagnosed with ASD are also diagnosed with Fragile X, a genetic condition where the X chromosome has a mutation causing mental effects ranging from mild learning disabilities to profound retardation.
o Like autism, Fragile X mostly affects boys.
* The experimental drug by Novartis, a Swiss pharmaceutical company is intended to address problems in the synapse (connectors) between brain cells so memory formation and high-level thinking can take place.
* Recent research has shown that neuronal synapses are affected in many genetic causes of autism, suggesting that a treatment for improving synapse function may lead to helping others on the autism spectrum that do not have Fragile X syndrome.
* Geri Dawson, Ph.D., chief science officer Autism Speaks feels that these results are exciting and is hopeful that these same medications may have similar positive benefits for people with autism who do not have Fragile X syndrome.
* Autism Speaks has and continues to fund research on Fragile X Syndrome.