Genetic basis of Autism

The notion that an inflammatory process such as the one induced by an immunization may contribute to children's mental retardation or Autism has fundamental truth when it comes to gene pathways. Indeed, during an acute inflammatory insult, Macrophages that are called to the theater will liberate several cytokines which include TGF alpha.  This cytokine will bind to EGFR receptors while other cytokines induced by the inflammatory process will bind their relevant receptors.  Internalization of these receptors will leave deep edges at the membrane, activating the Focal adhesion molecules of Kinase (FAK ).  The first known gene to react with the FAK gene is the Tuberous sclerosis gene which is known to lead to Autism.  In a forming or developing brain, certain isoforms of this gene may predispose some children to develop autism.   The crux of the problem is to determine which inflammatory process (immunization or other processes) is at the source of the problem!

PTK2 protein tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2), also known as Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK), is a protein that, in humans, is encoded by the PTK2 gene.^[2] PTK2 is a focal adhesion-associated protein kinase involved in cellular adhesion (how cells stick to each other and their surroundings) and spreading processes (how cells move around).^[3] It has been shown that when FAK was blocked, breast cancer cells became less metastatic due to decreased mobility.^[4]

 PTK2 has been shown to interact with TSC2, (22 wikipedia)

 Tuberin also known as tuberous sclerosis 2 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TSC2 gene.
 About 50% of people with TSC have learning difficulties ranging from mild to significant,^[2] and studies have reported that between 25% and 61% of affected individuals meet the diagnostic criteria for autism, with an even higher proportion showing features of a broader pervasive developmental disorder.^[3] A 2008 study reported self-injurious behavior in 10% of people with TSC.^[4] Other conditions, such as ADHD, aggression, behavioral outbursts and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) can also occur. Lower IQ is associated with more brain involvement on MRI.(wikipedia)

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THERE YOU HAVE IT THE FULL STORY!

WE BELIEVE IN THE CURE FOR BREAST CANCER

In this month of re-commitment to fighting Breast cancer, it is imperative to stop a while in a moment of reflection for those who have lost the fight, remind ourselves of who they were, what lives they touched as they made us who we are today in many ways.   I remember  my mother who was afflicted by this disease, a kind loving soul, who despite our number (family of 15) had managed to make all of us feel special.  I grew up truly believing that of all her kids, I was the one.  But talking to my other siblings, each one of us felt that special feeling! In 1974, 3 years before she was diagnosed and treated in Belgium, she added to my name a secret portion, "Muendela yenda" (the one who will walk alone) and here I am today, far from the country of origin, in  El Paso, Texas, the sole American Citizen of my family!  Preaching to a silent choir on this blog.  Breast cancer victims are our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends who have affected our lives in many ways. Survivors continue their paths and work touching our lives everyday, reminding us that our fight is needed and is just because there is a price to fight for.  Reminding us that until the cure happens, there is no stone that should remain unturned, no places we should not go, no politician we should not talk to, no genes,proteins, and other molecules that could make a difference we should not explore, poke and tease.  We could wander to other matters of our lives, but this month of October, we should renew our commitment to the fight for the cure of breast cancer.

Efforts made so far have made a meaningful difference, our eyes have opened to new dimensions of cancer research, and the belief in the cure has hardened because through advances in targeting therapy and genetic works, THE CURE IS MORE POSSIBLE, REACHABLE AND REAL!
All we need is cast off the doubt, stop infighting, keep the eyes open, and bring the cure to the shores of our daily reality! We have the means, we have the science, we are full of justified hope, let's keep on marching until the victory rings, making the CURE REAL, PALPABLE  AND ALIVE!

BRUSHING FURTHER!

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