Researchers at the Neurogenetics Laboratory at the University of Miami (Fla.) announced earlier this month that they’ve identified the gene responsible for a rare X-chromosome-linked form of spinal muscular atrophy.

Led by Dr. Lisa Baumbach-Reardon and supported by the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), the research team found that flaws in the UBE1 gene cause the X-chromosome form of the disease, which affects male babies and occurs in a small percentage of SMA cases. Its exact incidence is unknown.

To learn more, read the news release on the MDA website.