SHANK3 and autism: Given that Shank proteins are found in a complex of further autism associated proteins such as Neurexin (Nrxn) and Neuroligin (Nlgn), as well as mTOR, strengthening Shank3 scaffolds may also be beneficial in cases of mutation of other proteins of the proposed autism associated pathway at excitatory synapses (Bourgeron, 2009).