What is CYFIP2 Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy?

CYFIP2 Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy (EIEE) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the brain's development and function. 

This condition is caused by variations in the CYFIP2 gene. The CYFIP2 gene provides instructions for making a protein involved in brain development and function. Variations in this gene disrupt the normal function of this protein, leading to the neurological problems seen in CYFIP2 EIEE.

Infants with CYFIP2 EIEE typically experience frequent and severe seizures that can start in the first few months of life. These seizures are often difficult to control with standard antiepileptic medications.

There is usually a significant delay in reaching developmental milestones such as sitting, crawling, or walking.

Affected individuals may have difficulties with movement and coordination, as well as cognitive impairments. This can include issues with learning and problem-solving.

There may be associated features such as low muscle tone and feeding difficulties. Leukopenia/Nuetropenia is also often reported.

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may be beneficial in addressing developmental delays and improving quality of life.

Multidisciplinary care involving neurologists, geneticists, and other specialists may be necessary to manage the various aspects of CYFIP2 EIEE.

The outlook for individuals with CYFIP2 EIEE varies. Some may have significant developmental and intellectual disabilities, while others may show some improvement with treatment and therapy. Early intervention and supportive care play a critical role in optimizing outcomes.

What does CYFIP2 do exactly?

The CYFIP2 gene, also known as cytoplasmic FMR1-interacting protein 2, plays a crucial role in brain development and function.

CYFIP2 interacts with the Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP), which is essential for normal brain function. FMRP is known to be involved in the regulation of protein synthesis at synapses, the points of communication between nerve cells. CYFIP2 helps regulate this interaction and is thought to play a role in modulating synaptic activity and plasticity.

CYFIP2 is involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, a network of protein filaments and tubules that provides structural support to cells and is crucial for cell movement and shape. This regulation impacts neuronal growth and development.

By influencing the activity of FMRP and regulating actin dynamics, CYFIP2 is involved in synaptic plasticity—the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time, which is essential for learning and memory.

CYFIP2 is important for proper neuronal growth and development. It affects the formation and maturation of neuronal connections and is essential for normal brain function.

CYFIP2 helps regulate the translation of specific mRNAs into proteins at the synapse, affecting the synthesis of proteins necessary for synaptic function and plasticity.

About Us and Our Mission

The CYFIP2 Network was established in 2023 by two parents, after receiving a devasting diagnosis for their two month old son, CYFIP2 Early Infantile Epileptic Encephalopathy or EIEE65/DEE65. By searching for answers and any other families who would understand what was happening to their child, a small global community was found. The stories of each family, and symptoms of each child might be slightly different but we all share one thing in common:

We do not have a treatment.

We work to support children, families and research of CYFIP2 EIEE by:

Increasing awareness of CYFIP2 EIEE

Developing resources for a greater understanding of CYFIP2 EIEE and the associated variants

Raising funds to advance research for a treatment

Contact Us

CYFIP2 Network (FEIN: 93-4821164) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.