Summary: Researchers have identified a unique mitochondrial process in CA2 neurons that supports learning, memory, and social recognition. Mitochondria in different parts of these neurons vary in structure and function,…
Tag: Genetics
Genetics, Not Maternal Sickness, Drives Autism Risk
Summary: A large study analyzing over 1.1 million pregnancies found no strong evidence that maternal health conditions during pregnancy cause autism. Instead, nearly all previously reported associations between maternal diagnoses…
Delayed Brain Maturation Links Genetics and Eating Disorders
Summary: Over half of 23-year-olds display restrictive, emotional, or uncontrolled eating behaviors, with delayed brain maturation playing a significant role. The research linked structural brain differences, mental health challenges, and…
The Genetic Impact of Forever Chemicals on Brain Function
Summary: Researchers have found that per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) alter the expression of specific genes in brain-like cells, potentially contributing to neurotoxicity. Among six tested compounds, perfluorooctanoic acid…
New Insight into Genetic Disease Variability
Summary: New research reveals that certain cells inactivate one parent’s copy of a gene, leading to a bias in gene activity that may explain why some individuals with disease-causing mutations…
Rare Brain Cells Offer Clues to Aging and Rejuvenation
Summary: A study reveals how brain cell interactions influence aging, showing that rare cell types either accelerate or slow brain aging. Neural stem cells provide a rejuvenating effect on neighboring…
Twin Dynamics: How Developmental Differences Shape Dominance Roles
Summary: A new study reveals that developmental differences strongly influence dominance roles in twin relationships, with typically developing twins perceived as dominant over their nontypically developing siblings. This dominance imbalance…
Collaborative seeks to change children’s lives through genetics
Overview of participants and data included in the CRDC. Credit: npj Genomic Medicine (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41525-024-00441-9 A 14-year-old girl was having back pain after a car accident and visited an…
Genetic Mechanism Links Emotional Experiences to Behavior Changes
Summary: Researchers have identified a genetic mechanism that regulates behavioral adaptations to emotional experiences by forming R-loops, unique RNA:DNA structures that activate target genes. The study focused on NPAS4, a…
RNA:DNA ‘sandwich’ plays key role in behavioral adaptations arising from emotional experiences, research reveals
Medical University of South Carolina neuroscience researchers who are co-authors on the December 13 Science paper. From left to right: Rose-Marie Akiki, Dr. Christopehr Cowan, and Dr. Makoto Taniguchi. Credit:…
