| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 936731 | Neurobiology of Learning and Memory | 2011 | 7 Pages |
Mental retardation is a group of cognitive disorders with a significant worldwide prevalence rate. This high rate, together with the considerable familial and societal burden resulting from these disorders, makes it an important focus for prevention and intervention. While the diseases associated with mental retardation are diverse, a significant number are linked with disruptions in epigenetic mechanisms, mainly due to loss-of-function mutations in genes that are key components of the epigenetic machinery. Additionally, several disorders classed as imprinting syndromes are associated with mental retardation. This review will discuss the epigenetic abnormalities associated with mental retardation, and will highlight their importance for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these disorders.
► A number of diseases characterized by mental retardation are associated with disruptions in epigenetic mechanisms. ► Mutations in genes encoding key components of the epigenetic machinery, and imprinting syndromes have been linked to intellectual impairments. ► Research into the role of epigenetic abnormalities in mental retardation is an important focus for its diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
