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Molecular and Neurobiological Studies in Rett Syndrome and Other MECP2 Disorders

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Huda Zoghbi, M.D. headshot

Huda Zoghbi, M.D.

Professor, Pediatrics, Molecular and Human Genetics, Neuroscience, and Neurology
Director, Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute
Baylor College of Medicine
Member, National Academy of Medicine and National Academy of Sciences
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Maury Strauss Distinguished Public Lecture

Molecular and Neurobiological Studies in Rett Syndrome and Other MECP2 Disorders

Date: May 1, 2025

Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.  (Reception and hors d'oeuvres at 5 p.m.)

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About this Seminar

Rett syndrome is a delayed-onset childhood disorder that most often affects girls. It causes a broad range of severe neurological disabilities, including loss of the ability to speak and socialize, the development of tremors, ataxia, seizures, autonomic dysfunction, and stereotypic hand-wringing movements. Dr. Zoghbi and her team discovered that mutations in the gene MECP2 cause Rett syndrome, and before long it became clear that mutations in MECP2 can also cause other neuropsychiatric phenotypes ranging from autism to bipolar disorders. The lecture will highlight neurobiological and molecular studies that are providing insight into the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome and other MECP2 disorders, and will highlight discoveries that chart the path for therapeutic opportunities.

Additional Details

This is a free event hosted by Dr. Michael Friedlander and the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute. For more information, please call 540-526-2059.

About Maury Strauss

Maury Strauss was a longtime community benefactor and businessman who supported biomedical research with the goal of energizing the local economy and improving quality of life in our neighborhoods and around the world. In order to ensure the continued success of Roanoke’s biomedical research enterprise, as well as the free public seminars, Mr. Strauss made a generous gift to the series. He passed away in June 2024 at age 99. 

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