The importance of loss of synapses during development is demonstrated in people with _______, a condition in which the normal elimination of synapses after birth does not occur, leading to intellectual disability.
A) PKU
B) fragile X syndrome
C) Parkinson's disease
D) Alzheimer's disease

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fragile X syndrome is a genetic disorder that is characterized by intellectual disability, behavioral and learning challenges and is caused by the absence or mutation of a specific protein necessary for synapse pruning during neural development. As a result, individuals with this condition do not have the normal elimination of synapses after birth, leading to impaired cognitive development. Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease are neurodegenerative diseases that affect the brain in later life and do not directly relate to the loss of synapses during development. PKU (phenylketonuria) is a metabolic disorder that affects amino acid metabolism and may lead to intellectual disability if not treated, but it does not directly relate to the loss of synapses during development.

The Importance of Loss of Synapses During Development Is Demonstrated