Knocking out one key gene leads to autistic traits.

A recent study conducted by researchers at Rockefeller University has found that knocking out the Astrotactin 2 (ASTN2) gene in mice leads to behaviors that are characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The mice lacking ASTN2 showed reduced vocalization and socialization, increased hyperactivity, and repetitive behavior. The researchers also observed structural and physiological changes in the cerebellum, a brain region associated with cognitive functions beyond motor control. This study adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of the cerebellum in language, cognition, and social behavior. The researchers plan to further investigate the role of ASTN2 and other genes associated with autism in human cells. [Extracted from the article]