Source: A study has identified mutations arising during brain development that may contribute to schizophrenia. Unlike inherited genes, these somatic mutations occur after conception and were found more frequently in…
Tag: developmental neuroscience
Teens Risk Brain Damage in New TikTok “Chroming” Trend
Videos on TikTok are contributing to a resurgence in “chroming,” the dangerous practice of inhaling toxic fumes from household items like markers or nail polish. The study analyzed over 100…
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…
Environment and Hippocampal Size Impact Depression in Youth
Summary: Challenging social environments and the size of the left hippocampus in children aged 9-11 contribute to an increased risk of depression. Researchers found that children with larger hippocampal volumes…
Gender Nonconformity in Play Linked to ASD and Behavioral Problems
Summary: A new study reveals that gender nonconforming play behavior in 7-year-olds is associated with increased behavioral difficulties, including autistic traits in girls and peer relationship issues in boys. Researchers…
Children’s Curiosity or Memory Gaps? Why Kids Over-Explore Tasks
Summary: Children often gather more information than needed to complete a task, even when they know the solution. A new study suggests this “over-exploration” might stem from either natural curiosity…
Childhood Inflammation Linked to Later Mental Health Risks
Summary: Children with persistent inflammation are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders like psychosis and depression in early adulthood. A study found that elevated inflammation markers, particularly…
Child Signals: Vocal Cues Shape Adult Perceptions
Summary: Human children depend on caregivers for extended periods, employing complex vocal and cognitive cues to elicit adult attention and care. Recent research shows that adults prioritize vocal cues when…
Preteen Suicide Rates Rising, Especially Among Girls and Minorities
Summary: A recent study reveals that preteen suicide rates have increased by 8% annually since 2008, with the highest rises among female, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Hispanic preteens.…
Umbilical Cord Blood Test Could Predict Autism Risk
Summary: A recent study suggests that measuring specific fatty acid metabolites in newborn blood could predict autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk. Researchers found that higher levels of certain metabolites were…
