The ups and downs of BDNF in Rett syndrome.
Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked postnatal neurodevelopmental disorder, which is primarily caused by mutations in the gene encoding methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). A number of MeCP2 target genes have been identified, including the neurotrophic factor BDNF; however, the functional relevance of these targets has not been established. In this issue of Neuron, Chang et al. provide the first in vivo evidence for a functional interaction between BDNF and MeCP2.
Sun
Yi E
YE
Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Neuropsychiatric Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, 635 Charles E. Young Drive South, Los Angeles, California 91301, USA.
Wu
Hao
H
D000818:Animals; D019208:Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D051783:Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein 2 / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D008954:Models, Biological; D015518:Rett Syndrome / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000503:physiopathology
D019208:Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor; D051783:Methyl-CpG-Binding Protein 2