fragile X syndrome

American  

[fraj-uhl eks sin-drohm, -druhm, frajahyl] / ˈfrædʒ əl ˈɛks ˌsɪn droʊm, -drəm, ˈfrædʒaɪl /

noun

1. an inherited genetic disorder caused by a faulty gene on the X chromosome and having various possible effects, including developmental delays in infancy and early childhood, learning disabilities, intellectual disability, and a number of social, behavioral, and physical difficulties.

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fragile-X syndrome British  

noun

1. an inherited condition characterized by mental subnormality: affected individuals have an X-chromosome that is easily damaged under certain conditions

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Etymology

Origin of fragile X syndrome

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Their results fundamentally change how scientists understand the developmental origins of fragile X syndrome and suggest a potential treatment for brain cells damaged by the dysfunction.

From Science Daily • Oct. 10, 2023

"Blocking the CB1 receptor can relieve seizures and memory issues in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, a condition related to autism," Spectrum News explained, citing a 2013 study in Nature Medicine.

From Salon • Apr. 20, 2022

Both studies found several hits in genes regulated by the fragile X mental retardation protein, which is missing in fragile X syndrome, a disorder that can lead to intellectual disability and autism.

From Nature • Apr. 2, 2014

Parker, now 14, has fragile X syndrome, which causes intellectual disability and autistic behavior.

From New York Times • Jun. 7, 2013

This receptor is a component of a pathway that is also disrupted in fragile X syndrome, though it results from mutations in an entirely different gene.

From Science Magazine • Sep. 13, 2012