From DNA error to brain terror

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About the research

A new study on Helsmoortel-Van der Aa syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting brain development, offers hope through a nasal spray containing ADNP protein. Using a mouse model to mimic the condition, Claudio D'Incal (UAntwerp) discovered defects in the hippocampus and brain cell structure that impact learning and memory. Early tests with the spray show promise in restoring ADNP levels, potentially improving learning. Although treatments are still in development, these findings could pave the way for helping children with this and other rare diseases.

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Claudio Peter D'Incal

Claudio D'Incal is a PhD researcher and academic assistant at the Centre for Medical Genetics, part of the University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital. His passion and expertise lie in rare diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, patient and mouse studies, epigenetics, and functional research. With support from the Marie-Marguerite Delacroix Foundation, Claudio researches the causes of developmental disorders and the impact of genetic errors on the brain. In his PhD, he aims to test a therapy that may offer a breakthrough for children with developmental disorders.

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