Identification of the action mechanism of a protein impacting neural circuit development

New research uncovers the action mechanism of an enzyme called DHHC9 in normal development and function of neural networks in the brain. Mutations in DHHC9 have been identified in patients suffering from X-linked Intellectual Disability. The work shows DHHC9 plays a vital role in promoting the growth and branching of neurons and in maintaining the balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals being formed onto neurons.