How does MECP2 cause Rett syndrome?

Females have two copies of the X-chromosome. As such, they can inherit one copy of the X-chromosome that has a mutated MECP2 gene, while the MECP2 gene on the other copy of the X-chromosome is normal. This is what usually occurs in Rett syndrome.

Is Rett Syndrome Metabolic?

Rett syndrome: a neurological disorder with metabolic components.

What do astrocytes do?

Astrocytes are the most numerous cell type within the central nervous system (CNS) and perform a variety of tasks, from axon guidance and synaptic support, to the control of the blood brain barrier and blood flow. To perform these roles, there is a great variety of astrocytes.

Is Rett syndrome neurodegenerative?

Mutations at this gene and, therefore, disfunction of the protein lead to a specific kind of neurodegenerative disease: the Rett Syndrome. This syndrome seems to be specific of humans and develop mainly in girls around two years of age.

Why do only females get Rett syndrome?

Why is Rett syndrome usually only found in girls? Females have two copies of the X chromosome and males have one X and one Y chromosome. The MECP2 gene is found on the X chromosome, so females born with one normal and one changed copy of the MECP2 gene usually develop the symptoms of Rett syndrome.

What does the MECP2 gene do?

The MECP2 gene provides instructions for making a protein called MeCP2. This protein helps regulate gene activity (expression) by modifying chromatin, the complex of DNA and protein that packages DNA into chromosomes.

Can adults have Rett syndrome?

Shortened life span — although most people with Rett syndrome live into adulthood, they may not live as long as the average person because of heart problems and other health complications.

Why are astrocytes so important?

These cells are primarily responsible for homeostasis of the central nervous system (CNS). Through perivascular processes astrocytes contribute to blood-brain barrier and form “glymphatic” drainage system of the CNS.

What causes MECP2 mutation?

MECP2 duplication syndrome is caused by a genetic abnormality in which a portion of the X chromosome appears two times on one of the X chromosomes (duplication) instead of once. By definition, the affected region always contains the methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene.

Are there any celebrities with Rett syndrome?

October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month, and celebrities like Sofia Vergara, Billy Eichner, Nick Offerman, Andy Samberg, Sarah Silverman, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more have partnered with the RSRT for a public service announcement and social campaign that launched on Oct. 25.

Can Rett syndrome be reversed?

Rett Syndrome Is Reversible and Treatable by MeCP2 Gene Therapy into the Striatum in Mice.

What is the pathophysiology of MECP2 Duplication?

MECP2 duplication syndrome occurs when there is an extra copy (duplication) of genetic material that includes the MECP2 gene. The size of the duplication can vary (i.e. additional genes around the MECP2 gene may also be duplicated). However, it is unclear whether extra copies of other genes in this location affect the severity of the syndrome.

What are the signs and symptoms of MeCP2 syndrome?

Most females with a MECP2 duplication generally do not have symptoms, although depression, anxiety, and autistic features have been described in some women with the duplication. Very rarely, females have severe signs and symptoms, similar to those in males with the syndrome.

What is the long-term outlook for people with MECP2 Duplication Syndrome?

The long-term outlook ( prognosis ) for people with MECP2 duplication syndrome varies. Based on the few documented cases in the medical literature, approximately half of affected people succumb before age 25 years. This shortened life expectancy is largely due to immune system dysfunction…