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…

New research has potential to speed up forensic analysis in sexual assault cases

DNA, which has a double-helix structure, can have many genetic mutations and variations. Credit: NIH A team of researchers has developed a radical new technique for analyzing evidence in sexual…

Increase in Protein Linked to Salt Intake Implicated in Multiple Sclerosis

Summary: Researchers have uncovered that increased levels of the protein PRDM1-S, triggered by high salt intake, disrupt immune regulation and contribute to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS). This discovery…

Molecule Discovery Could Revolutionize Chronic Pain Treatment

Summary: Researchers have identified a natural molecule, phosphatidic acid, that reduces the sensitivity of touch-sensing ion channels, providing a promising new avenue for managing chronic pain. By increasing levels of…

New textbook sheds light on aging

Credit: Springer A new textbook provides an overview on the present understanding of aging—from the basic biology of aging to age-related diseases and to the role of lifestyle and the…

Muscle Proteins Trigger Desire for Exercise

Summary: A new study reveals that certain muscle proteins activated during exercise can increase the desire to stay active, shedding light on a muscle-brain signaling pathway. The research suggests that…

Unraveling Schizophrenia: Genetics and Environmental Insights

Summary: A recent review outlines the genetic complexity of schizophrenia, highlighting nearly 300 common genetic variants and over 20 rare variants linked to the disorder. Researchers emphasize that schizophrenia’s genetic…

Research shows genetic variants are more common in people with Parkinson’s disease than previously thought

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Investigators in the Parkinson’s Foundation-backed PD GENEration study—which reached its goal of 15,000 participants ahead of schedule this spring—found that 13% of participants have a genetic…

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…