A set of genes—including cytoskeletal genes (e.g., Abracl, Fam49a, Limch, and Nefm), cytokines (e.g., Mif, linked to autism spectrum disorders and epilepsy), cell adhesion molecules (e.g., Flrt3), and receptors (e.g., Plxna4), which are involved in axon, dendritic development and synaptogenesis (20, 21)—were also identified to be down-regulated after Foxg1 deletion (Fig. 3C and fig. Here, MIF is linked to autism spectrum disorder.