The levels of a protein called FABP4 are significantly lower in children aged four-to-six in children with autism. Read More
Specific combinations of microorganisms in the gut can worsen symptoms of multiple sclerosis in mouse models of the autoimmune disease. Read More
Study reveals how varying odors are perceived similarly in different individuals. Read More
Mouse study reveals slow-wave brain activity, which is indicative of sleep and resting states, is controlled by the claustrum. The synchronization of active and silent states across the brain via the slow waves contributes to consciousness. Read More
People with schizophrenia have lower levels of S1P, a type of fatty molecule found in white matter. Evaluating post mortem tissue of those who died from a range of psychiatric disorders, researchers found the decreased levels of S1P in the brain was only attributed to those with schizophrenia. The findings could lead to new targeted treatments for the mental health disorder. Read More
Neural stem cells affect the trajectory and timing of division in brain development more than previously believed. The findings provide insight into the mechanisms controlling early brain development and shed light on the evolution of the brain. Read More
Optogenetic stimulation of the motor cortex causes marmosets to move their forelimbs in an almost puppet-like fashion. Read More
Study reveals how a protein that transports essential amino acids across the placenta plays a role in fetal development. Deficiencies of the SNAT4 protein may result in developmental abnormalities and a higher risk of miscarriage. Read More
Study identifies distinct neural processes that occur when we make decisions for the benefit of ourselves and of others. Read More
Mouse models and human postmortem brain tissue sample studies reveal a subtype of schizophrenia is related to abnormally high levels of hydrogen sulfide in the brain. Hair follicle analysis of patients with this schizophrenia subtype revealed higher expression of MPST mRNA than in those without the condition. MPST is linked to the production of hydrogen sulfide. The findings may lead to new tests to determine if a patient has the schizophrenia subtype from a simple hair sample analysis. Read More
A newly developed microfluidic device allowed researchers to keep tissue from the suprachiasmatic nucleus alive for over 25 days. Read More
Reduced levels of an amino acid called betaine is associated with schizophrenia pathology. Supplementing betaine levels improved cognitive and behavioral deficits in mouse models of schizophrenia. The amino acid also reduced oxidative stress at the molecular level. Read More
