"Gene Linked to Autism Social Difficulties"

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have identified the gene GTF2I as a key factor in social behavior, shedding light on its role in Williams syndrome and autism spectrum disorders. Using brain organoids, they found that the absence of GTF2I led to neural development issues and synaptic defects, offering potential insights into social behavior variations and the development of treatments for social impairments associated with autism. The study also contributes to our understanding of human social evolution and cooperation, highlighting the gene's central role in fetal brain development and its impact on socialization.