Metabonomics adds a new dimension to fragile X syndrome.
Fragile X syndrome is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability, but the underlying pathophysiology is complex and effective treatments are lacking. In a recent study of fragile X mental retardation 1 (Fmr1) knockout mice, the metabolic profile of the fragile X brain was determined using proton high-resolution magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This analysis revealed deficiencies in four metabolic categories: neurotransmission, osmoregulation, energy metabolism and oxidative stress response. Abnormalities in the metabolic phenotype were linked to the fragile X mental retardation protein using an integrated metabolome and interactome mapping approach, allowing a global picture of the disorder to emerge.
Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43, 2650 Edegem, Belgium. Frank.Kooy@ua.ac.be.
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