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Dynamic Clamp Methods to Investigate Impaired Neuronal Excitability Associated with Autism
Published on: October 17, 2025
Mutations in the gene encoding the synaptic scaffolding protein SHANK3 are associated with autism spectrum disorders
Christelle M Durand1, Catalina Betancur, Tobias M Boeckers
1Human Genetics and Cognitive Functions, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.
Abstract:
SHANK3 (also known as ProSAP2) regulates the structural organization of dendritic spines and is a binding partner of neuroligins; genes encoding neuroligins are mutated in autism and Asperger syndrome. Here, we report that a mutation of a single copy of SHANK3 on chromosome 22q13 can result in language and/or social communication disorders. These mutations concern only a small number of individuals, but they shed light on one gene dosage-sensitive synaptic pathway that is involved in autism spectrum disorders.
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