In addition, recurrent de novo copy number amplifications encompassing USP7 and C16orf72/HAPSTR1 are also seen in autism spectrum disorder (Sanders et al, 2011), and the role of p53 and the DNA damage response pathway in neurodegenerative diseases and autism is increasingly recognized (Chang et al, 2012; Wong et al, 2016), further indicating a potentially interesting connection. Here, USP7 is linked to autism.