Scientists have long believed that, generally speaking, the bigger an animal is, the bigger its brain. But our recent study challenges the nature of that linear view and reveals new insights…
Category: Genetics
Nutritional epigenetics: How life events can shape your genes and their impact on diet and health
Within the last century, researchers’ understanding of genetics has undergone a profound transformation. Genes, regions of DNA that are largely responsible for our physical characteristics, were considered unchanging under the original…
Biopiracy? Are pharmaceutical companies stealing the genetic information in the developing world’s flora and fauna?
Low-income countries – where much of the world’s biodiversity remains – hope it could funnel billions into conserving the rainforests, lakes and oceans where such organisms live. Examples of what…
Neurodevelopmental Disruptions Behind Schizophrenia Cognitive Deficits
Summary: A recent review of genetic and population studies reveals that premorbid cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, such as lower IQ, are largely due to neurodevelopmental disruptions rather than inherited genetic…
5% of the population claim near-death experiences: Psychedelics may be a way to understand what happens in our brain
One person felt a sensation of “slowly floating into the air” as images flashed around. Another recalled “the most profound sense of love and peace,” unlike anything experienced before. Consciousness…
RNA Therapy Improves Memory and Reduces Anxiety
Summary: An RNA-based therapy, COG-201, can enhance memory and reduce anxiety in animal models by targeting the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor. Scientists found that decreasing this receptor’s expression led to improved…
Schizophrenia Linked to Disrupted Synaptic Plasticity
Summary: Researchers have identified a mechanism that impairs synaptic plasticity in individuals with schizophrenia, revealing the role of three key proteins. Using computational modeling, the team explored how genetic alterations…
Viewpoint: Probiotics are not regulated by the FDA. Do they even work?
P robiotics, also referred to as live biotherapeutic products (LBPs), are products that contain live organisms, such as bacteria, that are found naturally in humans. The most common are bacteria that belong…
50,000 brain scans: AI has discovered five patterns of brain atrophy, providing insights into the mystery of aging
An analysis of almost 50,000 brain scans has revealed five distinct patterns of brain atrophy associated with ageing and neurodegenerative disease. The analysis has also linked the patterns to lifestyle…
