The brain processes information by transmitting signals at synapses, which connect neurons
into vast networks of communicating cells. In these networks, synapses not only transmit …

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe neuropsychiatric disease with strong genetic
underpinnings. However, genetic contributions to autism are extremely heterogeneous, with …

Synaptogenesis, the generation and maturation of functional synapses between nerve cells,
is an essential step in the development of neuronal networks in the brain. It is thought to be …

Multiple independent mutations in neuroligin genes were identified in patients with familial
autism, including the R451C substitution in neuroligin-3 (NL3). Previous studies showed that …

Animal models provide preclinical tools to investigate the causal role of genetic mutations
and environmental factors in the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Knockout and …

Improving clinical tests are allowing us to more precisely classify autism spectrum disorders
and diagnose them at earlier ages. This raises the possibility of earlier and potentially more …

Glutamate is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain and may be a key
neurotransmitter involved in autism. Literature pertaining to glutamate and autism or related …

Recent advances in genetics and genomics have unveiled numerous cases of autism
spectrum disorders (ASDs) associated with rare, causal genetic variations. These findings …

Chemical synapses provide a vital foundation for neuron-neuron communication and overall
brain function. By tethering closely apposed molecular machinery for presynaptic …

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most complex behavioral disorders with a
strong genetic influence. The objectives of this article are to review the current status of …