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Microcephaly can develop from multiple different factors, encompassing both environmental and genetic causes. As of 2021, 28 genes (MCPH1 ~ MCPH28) has been determined to contribute to congenital microcephaly when mutated [4]. However, further research suggests that there could be even more microcephaly-linked genes as many microcephaly patients do not show linkage to the identified 28 genes[5]. Other known microcephaly-inducing mutation include:
Furthermore, environmentally-induced microcephaly has been a topic of interest in recent years. Severe maternal diabetes and alcohol could lead to Microcephaly, but with global warming, the linkage of Zika to microcephaly has been the most well-studied [7]. The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne zoonosis that causes neurological impairment in tropical area [7]. However, with global warming, various researchers are expecting the spread of Zika into temperate climate, including the US [8]. |
Vid 1. Video explaining the different causes of Microcephaly
Fig 3. The life and transmission cycle of the Zika Virus
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