Fragile XE syndrome is a genetic disorder that impairs thinking ability and cognitive functioning. Most affected individuals have mild intellectual disability. In some people with this condition, cognitive function is described as borderline, which means that it is below average but not low enough to be classified as an intellectual disability. Females are rarely diagnosed with fragile XE syndrome, likely because the signs and symptoms are so mild that the individuals function normally.
Fragile XE syndrome is caused by mutations in the AFF2 gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein whose function is not well understood. Some studies show that the AFF2 protein can attach (bind) to DNA and help control the activity of other genes. Other studies suggest that the AFF2 protein is involved in the process by which the blueprint for making proteins is cut and rearranged to produce different versions of the protein (alternative splicing). Researchers are working to determine which genes and proteins are affected by AFF2.
Fragile XE syndrome is estimated to affect 1 in 25,000 to 100,000 newborn males. Only a small number of affected females have been described in the medical literature. Because mildly affected individuals may never be diagnosed, it is thought that the condition may be more common than reported.
Fragile XE syndrome is inherited in an X-linked pattern. A condition is considered X-linked if the mutated gene that causes the disorder is located on the X chromosome, one of the two sex chromosomes in each cell. In males, who have only one X chromosome, a mutation in the only copy of the gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the condition. In females, who have two copies of the X chromosome, one altered copy of the gene in each cell can lead to less severe features of the condition or may cause no signs or symptoms at all. A characteristic of X-linked inheritance is that fathers cannot pass X-linked traits to their sons.
Maureen Leehey is a Neurologist in Lone Tree, Colorado. Leehey has been practicing medicine for over 37 years and is rated as a Distinguished expert by MediFind in the treatment of Fragile XE Syndrome. She is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. Her top areas of expertise are Parkinson's Disease, Fragile XE Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, and Drug Induced Dyskinesia. She is licensed to treat patients in Colorado. Leehey is currently accepting new patients.
Kim Cornish practices in Melbourne, Australia. Cornish is rated as a Distinguished expert by MediFind in the treatment of Fragile XE Syndrome. They are also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. Their top areas of expertise are Fragile X Syndrome, Fragile XE Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
David Godler practices in Parkville, Australia. Godler is rated as a Distinguished expert by MediFind in the treatment of Fragile XE Syndrome. He is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. His top areas of expertise are Fragile X Syndrome, Fragile XE Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome, and Mosaicism.
Background: Some patients with unusual genetic conditions are referred to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). They may not be eligible to join current research studies. Testing such patients is a good way to improve the skills of research staff. The findings could lead to new processes and research.
Summary: This study is a controlled trial of metformin in individuals with fragile X syndrome between the ages of 6 and 35 years. Participants will be randomized in a double-blind design to either drug or placebo and will attend three visits to the study site in a 4-month period for a series of tests. The primary objectives are to assess safety, tolerability, and efficacy of metformin in the treatment of l...
Published Date: January 01, 2014Published By: National Institutes of Health