Hsiao-Tuan Chao, Graduate Student

Phone: 713-798-3540
E-mail: hc140077@bcm.edu

Joined the lab: May 2005

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a progressive neurodevelopmental disease caused by mutations in the X-linked gene encoding the transcriptional repressor, methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene.  Classic RTT manifests in female patients by the onset of tremors, seizures, stereotypies, loss of motor skills, and social behavioral abnormalities including lack of communication, and withdrawn behavior reminiscent of features seen in autistic patients. I hypothesize that MeCP2 dysfunction results in abnormal excitatory-inhibitory neuronal activity, which ultimately contributes to altered social behavior and stereotyped behavior.