The 16p11.2 deletion mouse model of autism exhibits altered cortical progenitor proliferation and brain cytoarchitecture linked to the ERK MAPK pathway.
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This mouse study found that the 16p11.2 deletion disrupts a key brain signaling pathway (ERK) during early brain development, leading to changes in brain size, brain structure, and the number of certain nerve cells, as well as anxiety-like behavior and memory problems — helping researchers better understand why some children with the deletion may experience developmental challenges.