Could A Cancer Drug Help Autism Patients?

A drug that may help cancer patients could also help those with a rare form of autism spectrum disorder, according to recent findings published in the journal Cell Reports.

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh and McGill University targeted the pathway that involves a molecule known as eIF4E, discovering that this molecule is responsible for excessive production of an enzyme known as MMP-9 that breaks down nerve connections called synapses, reorders them and causing learning and intellectual difficulties, delays in speech and language development, and social behavioural issues in people suffering with Fragile X Syndrome.

Providing a ray of hope for people with autism, a drug that is being tested for cancer could cure an inherited form autism spectrum disorder.
According to Daily Mail, researchers from University of Edinburgh and McGill University have understood that a naturally occurring chemical called cercosporamide can block a molecular pathway, associated with abnormal symptoms in people with Fragile X Syndrome. Cercosporamide is being tested for lung cancer and acute myeloid leukaemia. The autism related findings were made based on animal studies.

"We found that eIF4E regulates the production of an enzyme called MMP-9, which breaks down and re-orders the connections between brain cells called synapses," concluded the study's co-author Nahum Sonenberg, from McGill University, in a news release. "Excess MMP-9 disrupts communication between brain cells, leading to changes in behavior."

The health problem is estimated to affect around 1 in 4000 boys and 1 in 6000 girls. While here are treatments available, there is currently no cure.

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