Marijuana use alters a gene associated with autism in sperm. Hypomethylation was identified in the DLGAP2 gene in the sperm of male rats exposed to THC. The hypomethylated state was also detected in the forebrains of their offspring. Further research is needed to establish if there is a definitive link between paternal cannabis use and ASD in humans.
Older adults who experience problems completing simple financial tasks, such as calculating their change, may be at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Problems with financial management have often been associated with later stage dementia. A new study reveals this could be one of the earliest signs of dementia and may be correlated with a build-up of amyloid plaque deposits.
A new study suggests the loss of blood vessels in the retina could signal Alzheimer’s disease.
Even prior to pregnancy, a mother's exposure to second hand smoke can have implications for the brain development of her offspring, including damage to areas of the brain associated with emotion, memory and learning.