Persistent astrocyte activation in the fragile X mouse cerebellum.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Fragile X Syndrome, the most common single gene cause of autism, results from loss of the RNA-binding protein FMRP. Although FMRP is highly expressed in neurons, it has also recently been identified in glia. It has been postulated that in the absence of FMRP, abnormal function of non-neuronal cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of the disorder. We previously demonstrated reduced numbers of oligodendrocyte precursor cells and delayed myelination in the cerebellum of fragile X (Fmr1) knockout mice.

Methods

We used quantitative western blotting and immunocytochemistry to examine the status of astrocytes and microglia in the cerebellum of Fmr1 mice during development and in adulthood.

Results

We report increased expression of the astrocyte marker GFAP in t

SUBMITTER: Pacey LK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4614053 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature