| Background | Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2(MeCP2), whose exact function is unclear. It appears to help regulate gene activity (expression) by modifying chromatin, the complex of DNA and protein that packages DNA into chromosomes. The MeCP2 protein usually regulates genes involved in brain function, even though this protein is found throughout the body.Within the brain, the MeCP2 protein is important for the function of nerve cells (neurons) and is present in high levels in mature neurons. This protein likely plays a role in maintaining connections (synapses) between neurons, where cell-to-cell communication occurs. Many of the genes that are known to be regulated by the MeCP2 protein play a role in normal brain function, particularly the maintenance of synapses. |
