A to Z

chromosome 21

·January 10, 2019·3 min read

Decades Old Question About Alzheimer’s Protein Answered

A new study reports amyloid precursor proteins modulate neural signal transmission by binding to a specific receptor. Researchers say modulating the receptor could help treat Alzheimer's disease.

The image shows the location of Usp16 on chromosome 21.

Featured Genetics

·September 11, 2013·6 min read

Faulty Stem Cell Regulation May Contribute to Cognitive Deficits Associated with Down Syndrome

According to a new study, over-expression of the Usp16 gene could be a major contributor to neurological deficits associated with Down syndrome.

Featured Genetics Open Neuroscience Articles

·April 17, 2017·6 min read

For Keeping X Chromosomes Active, Chromosome 19 Marks the Spot

Finding could explain the human sex ration that slightly favors males over females.

Featured Genetics Neurology Psychology

·June 26, 2018·5 min read

Genes Linking Alzheimer’s to Down Syndrome Discovered

Researchers report extra copies of genes on chromosome 21 increase Alzheimer's like pathology and cognitive impairment in mouse models of Down syndrome. The findings provide insight into early onset Alzheimer's in those with Down syndrome.

This is a generic image of neurons and synapses.

Featured Neuroscience

·August 3, 2015·3 min read

Hippocampal Circuit Abnormalities Linked to Learning Difficulties in Down Syndrome

A new study sheds light into a possible cause of learning difficulties in Down syndrome.

Featured Genetics

·February 25, 2016·3 min read

Pinpointing a Potential Treatment Target for Down Syndrome

A new study of gene activity in the brains of people with Down syndrome reveals the formation of white matter is affected throughout life.

This image shows a double helix DNA strand.

Autism Featured Genetics Open Neuroscience Articles

·July 20, 2015·3 min read

Researchers Claim to Have Uncovered a Cause of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities

A new study claims researchers have identified a new cause for some cases of autism and other intellectual disabilities.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·May 23, 2019·3 min read

Targeting key gene could help lead to down syndrome treatment

Using stem cells from candidates with Down syndrome to create an organoid, and employing mouse models, researchers pinpoint a gene linked to memory impairments and cognitive problems in Down syndrome. Inhibiting the OLIG2 gene leads to cognitive and memory improvements in mouse models of Down. Researchers hope their findings lead to an in utero treatment that targets the gene and helps reverse abnormal brain development.