Using a highly versatile form of CRISPR gene editing, researchers successfully restored vision in mice with retinitis pigmentosa.
CRISPR gene editing created the G795A amino acid which was introduced to microglia derived from human stem cells. Researchers were able to transplant the donor microglia immune cells into humanized rodent models while administering an FDA-approved cancer drug called pexidartinib. The inclusion of the amino acid cause the donated microglia to thrive and resist the drug, while the host microglia died. The findings open the door for new methods of using microglia to treat a range of neurodegenerative disorders.
The "love hormone" oxytocin may not play as critical a role in bonding as previously believed. Removing the oxytocin receptor in animal models still resulted in monogamous mating, attachment, and parental bonding behaviors, although females without the receptor produced milk in smaller quantities. Findings reveal parenting and bonding aren't purely dictated by oxytocin receptors.
Researchers have developed a new family of nano-scale capsules capable of carrying CRISPR gene editing tools to different organs of the body before harmlessly dissolving. The capsules were able to enter the brains of mice and successfully edit a gene associated with Alzheimer's disease.
A new stem cell therapy approach eliminates established brain tumors and provides long-term immunity, training the immune system to prevent cancer from returning.
Using CRISPR gene editing to directly target RNA, researchers eliminated toxic protein buildup associated with Huntington's disease while not disrupting other human genes.
Using CRISPR gene editing, researchers were able to control microglia and reverse their toxic state associated with Alzheimer's disease, and put them back on track.
Using gene editing to disrupt a gene in the thalamus that codes for a protein that binds to GABA boosted the activity of delta waves and promoted deep sleep in mouse models.
Gene editing may provide hope for the treatment of Fragile X, the leading genetic cause of autism.
The dSlo2 channel appears to play a role in suppressing hyperactivity in the brain that causes epileptic seizures.
Mouse study identifies specific neurons and a signaling pathway to regions of the hindbrain that mediate sexual reproductive activity and physical activity that appear to influence activity behaviors during ovulation. The findings may provide valuable insights into how estrogen loss during menopause disrupts this activity.
Researchers have identified specific proteins that drive the development of cancer stem cells. They report targeting and suppressing galectin1, in addition to radiation therapy, could be an effective treatment for glioblastoma brain cancer.
