The Canali ETS Foundation supported the world’s first clinical trial of the drug Mirtazapine for Rett syndrome.

Rett syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects girls and is the second leading cause of intellectual disability worldwide.

In 95% of cases, it is caused by a mutation in the MeCP2 gene located on the X chromosome.

The onset of the disease occurs in the second year of life, following a period of apparently normal development, presenting with rapid regression in language and movement, the onset of breathing difficulties, and seizures.

There is no way to predict or anticipate the disease, and although some medications can reduce certain symptoms, there is currently no definitive cure.

The 6-month non-profit clinical trial to test the drug Mirtazapine in patients across three different age groups will take place at four Italian hospitals in Milan, Genoa, Siena, and Messina, with the University of Trieste serving as the coordinating center.