# IISc finds how faulty gene DDX3X damages brain cells 2026-08-13T03:16:38+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet Bengaluru: IISc scientists have shown how mutations in the DDX3X gene, a leading genetic cause of intellectual disability in women, turn a protective cell mechanism into a neuron-killer. DDX3X normally helps form temporary stress granules that dissolve once the cell copes. Mutations make these granules solid and persistent, eventually killing brain cells. The study also found that some mutations encourage aggregation of beta-amyloid, a protein tied to Alzheimer’s, though the authors stress this does not mean DDX3X causes Alzheimer’s. The work offers the first molecular explanation for how different mutations in DDX3X syndrome converge on the same damage pathway. ## Coverage - timesofindia.indiatimes.com Tags: Alzheimer's link, DDX3X syndrome, genetic mutation, IISc, intellectual disability, stress granules Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/iisc-finds-how-faulty-gene-ddx3x-damages-brain-cells/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/iisc-finds-how-faulty-gene-ddx3x-damages-brain-cells/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.