A new gene for Tourette's syndrome: a window into causal mechanisms?

Trends Genet. 2006 Jun;22(6):291-3. doi: 10.1016/j.tig.2006.04.003. Epub 2006 May 4.

Abstract

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairing motor-vocal tics. Locating genetic loci by associating the phenotype with DNA translocations, inversions, gain or losses, State et al. identified SLITRK1 as a candidate gene in an individual with GTS and inv(13) (q31.1; q33.1). This gene was also associated with abnormal axonal-dendritic development in embryonic mouse cells. Although SLITRK1 is not a major causal gene for GTS, it can shed light on our understanding of the gene-based neural correlates of this disease.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics*
  • Mice
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / genetics*
  • Tourette Syndrome / genetics*

Substances

  • Membrane Proteins
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • SLITRK1 protein, human