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Breakthrough may help those with Down syndrome

This article is more than 12 months old

Scientists at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) have mapped out the precise function of a protein, which may lead to a better understanding of how to help those with Down syndrome.

The protein, SNX27, was previously known to be related to memory formation.

Insufficient SNX27 mean nerve cells cannot pass chemical signals to one another properly. This, in turn, impairs the brain's ability to form memories.

About one in 800 newborns is diagnosed with Down syndrome.

It is a condition that leads to impairments in both cognitive ability and physical growth that range from mild to moderate developmental disabilities.