Cancer Drug May Play Role in Treating Fragile X

Shaun Heasley of Disability Scoop writes: A potential cancer treatment may also relieve behavioral symptoms of a condition associated with autism and intellectual disability, researchers say.

A drug known as cercosporamide is currently being tested as a treatment for lung cancer and acute myeloid leukemia, but a new study suggests it also holds promise for alleviating symptoms of fragile X syndrome, the most common cause of inherited intellectual disability and a condition that often co-occurs with autism.

In the study, scientists identified a molecule called eIF4E that prompts excess protein production in the brains of individuals with fragile X, leading to behavior problems, learning difficulties and other issues.

Abstract: http://www.cell.com/cell-reports/abstract/S2211-1247%2814%2900933-4