The Williams syndrome deletion on chromosome 7q11 includes 27 genes, but the effect of the deletion of most of these genes is not understood.  Scientific discovery holds much promise:

• Deepen our understanding of the roles of multiple genes underlying Williams syndrome
• Accelerate translational research in novel diagnostics and therapeutics for Williams syndrome
• Enable the detailed study of individuals with Williams syndrome throughout the lifespan. 

Rapid advances present major opportunities to gather and analyze data in new ways, allowing researchers to better understand how deletion of specific genes lead to particular Williams syndrome symptoms and point to new pathways for therapeutic development.