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Genetics

·April 30, 2023·6 min read

Uncovering the Human Genome’s Secrets: 240 Mammalian Species Shed Light on What Makes Us Unique

Researchers analyzed the DNA sequences from 240 mammalian species, showing how comparative genomics can shed light on how certain species achieve extraordinary feats and help scientists better understand the functional parts of the human genome. By identifying regions of the genomes that are most conserved across mammalian species, they pinpointed the genetic basis for uncommon mammalian traits, such as the ability to hibernate or detect faint scents from miles away. They also found genetic variants that are more likely to play causal roles in rare and common human diseases.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 27, 2023·6 min read

Researchers Discover Protein That May Help Resist Dementia Despite Plaque Buildup

Researchers have discovered a protein, neuritin, that is associated with cognitive resilience to Alzheimer’s disease and may delay cognitive decline. This protein helps retain neuronal connections, even when toxic substances such as amyloid beta plaques and tau tangles that cause Alzheimer's try to break them down.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·April 27, 2023·5 min read

Identification of DNA Methylation Markers in Newborns for Increased Schizophrenia Risk

Researchers identified DNA methylation markers that may indicate the risk of developing schizophrenia later in life in newborns. This breakthrough discovery could allow for early detection and intervention to reduce the impact of the disease. By studying blood samples collected at birth, the team was able to identify unique methylation differences in cell types that could become potential clinical biomarkers for future early detection of schizophrenia.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Visual Neuroscience

·April 26, 2023·3 min read

Gene Therapy for Dogs With Inherited Blinding Eye Disease Set for Human Trials

A groundbreaking gene therapy proven successful in treating an inherited, blinding eye disease in dogs is now poised for clinical trials in humans with the rare condition retinitis pigmentosa. The therapy, which halts vision loss by introducing a normal copy of the CNGB1 gene, could potentially benefit around 2 million people affected worldwide.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·April 25, 2023·4 min read

Unraveling the Genetic Mechanisms Behind Long-Lasting Memories in the Brain

Researchers shed new light on the molecular and genetic basis of long-term memory formation in the brain. A new study reveals a single stimulation to the synapses of hippocampal neurons triggered numerous cycles where the memory-coding Arc gene produced mRNA molecules that were then translated into synapse-strengthening Arc proteins. From the findings, researchers determined a novel feedback loop that helps explain how short-lived mRNA and proteins create long-term memories in the brain.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·April 25, 2023·4 min read

Genetic Driver of Anxiety Discovered

An international team of scientists has identified a gene in the brain responsible for anxiety symptoms and found that modifying the gene can reduce anxiety levels, offering a novel drug target for anxiety disorders. The discovery highlights a new amygdala miR483-5p/Pgap2 pathway that regulates the brain's response to stress and provides a potential therapeutic approach for anxiety disorders.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·April 24, 2023·4 min read

Antiviral Pathway a Potential New Target for Alzheimer’s Treatment

Inhibiting cGAS, an innate immune system enzyme allows neurons to become more resilient to tau fibrils. The new finding may serve in the development of new therapies to help treat Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia, two neurodegenerative disorders associated with tau build-up in the brain.

This shows a genetically engineered worm

Featured Neuroscience

·April 23, 2023·6 min read

Worm Model Weeds Out New Insight Into Endocannabinoid System

A new study of worms brings new insight into the workings of the endocannabinoid system and helps answer the question of why cannabis consumption enhances mood and gives people "the munchies". Researchers found cannabis consumption activates the endocannabinoid system and evokes cravings for higher calorie foods.

This shows a stressed man and drawings of clocks

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·April 21, 2023·6 min read

Stress Rapidly Increases Biological Age, but Recovery Turns Back the Clock

Stress can cause rapid and transient increases in biological age, which can be reversed upon recovery, according to a new study. Using DNA methylation clocks, researchers found that stress triggers short-term fluctuations in biological age in humans and mice. The findings challenge the idea that biological age has a unidirectional upward trajectory over the life course, and highlights the importance of reducing biological age to improve longevity.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·April 21, 2023·4 min read

Key Protein of Hippocampal Neurogenesis Discovered

The protein Yap1 plays a key role in the generation of new neurons in the hippocampus. However, tight regulation of Yap1 activity is essential as dysregulation causes the disruption of tissue seen in glioblastoma brain cancer.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·April 20, 2023·5 min read

Engineered Cells Offer Promise for Treating ALS and Blinding Diseases

Engineered stem cells may lead to personalized treatments for a range of neurological and visual disorders, a new study reports. Transplanting engineered induced pluripotent stem cells into the eyes of rodents with retinal degeneration led to the protection of cells in the eyes that support vision. In ALS models, transplanting cells into the spinal cord protected movement controlling cells. The engineered cells also created astrocytes and did not result in tumor formation.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·April 20, 2023·3 min read

Gene Activity Analysis Provides Better Classification for Brain Diseases

Analyzing the gene activity map or transcriptome of different brain diseases can help identify underlying mechanisms and comorbidity. The method could also uncover new relationships among diseases and improve treatment options.

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Genetics

Uncovering the Human Genome’s Secrets: 240 Mammalian Species Shed Light on What Makes Us Unique

Researchers Discover Protein That May Help Resist Dementia Despite Plaque Buildup

Identification of DNA Methylation Markers in Newborns for Increased Schizophrenia Risk

Gene Therapy for Dogs With Inherited Blinding Eye Disease Set for Human Trials

Unraveling the Genetic Mechanisms Behind Long-Lasting Memories in the Brain

Genetic Driver of Anxiety Discovered

Antiviral Pathway a Potential New Target for Alzheimer’s Treatment

Worm Model Weeds Out New Insight Into Endocannabinoid System

Stress Rapidly Increases Biological Age, but Recovery Turns Back the Clock

Key Protein of Hippocampal Neurogenesis Discovered

Engineered Cells Offer Promise for Treating ALS and Blinding Diseases

Gene Activity Analysis Provides Better Classification for Brain Diseases

100,000 Small Factors Rival DNA in Disease Risk

The Brain Stacks Sound Information to Navigate the Dark

Edge of Chaos: Why Pigeons Refuse to Become “Machines”

Brain’s Default Setting for Ambiguity Matters for Mental Health

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