A hidden gene finally explains this rare neurological disorder

Article excerpt

Scientists studying nearly 3,000 patients with rare movement disorders have identified mutations in CD99L2, a gene previously thought to work only in the immune system, as a cause of coordination and muscle-control problems. The discovery reveals that the gene plays a critical role in nerve-cell communication. Researchers were surprised to find this immune-system gene had neurological functions, opening new avenues for understanding and potentially treating these debilitating disorders that affect how people move and control their muscles.