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RNA

·June 10, 2025·4 min read

How the Brain’s RNA Rings Are Formed

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable, ring-shaped molecules that play crucial roles in brain development, cognition, and long-term cellular regulation. Unlike typical RNA, they form closed loops that resist degradation, making them ideal for neurons.

This shows a drawing of a hand, symbolizing the blood test.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·May 22, 2025·4 min read

Blood Test Identifies Depression Risk in Teenagers

Summary: Researchers have identified nine blood-based microRNAs that are elevated in teens diagnosed with depression, offering a potential biomarker for...

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·November 3, 2024·3 min read

RNA Structures Linked to Parkinson’s Protein Aggregates

Researchers have identified unique RNA structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s) that promote harmful α-synuclein protein aggregation linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. Elevated calcium levels trigger these G4s, acting as "scaffolds" for α-synuclein clumping. Administering 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to model mice prevented aggregation and reduced motor symptoms. This breakthrough suggests that G4-targeted therapies could offer early intervention for neurodegenerative diseases.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·October 31, 2024·6 min read

How Brain Proteins Shape Neural Connections

A new study links hundreds of brain proteins to differences in how brain regions communicate, revealing how microscale molecules can influence macroscale brain connectivity. Researchers studied brain samples and scans from elderly participants to map biochemical mechanisms affecting structural and functional connectivity in the brain. By integrating protein and RNA data with neuroimaging, they identified key proteins associated with communication between brain areas.

Featured Neuroscience

·October 9, 2024·5 min read

AI Discovers 161,000 New Viruses

A novel study study using AI has uncovered 161,979 new RNA viruses, significantly expanding our understanding of Earth's viral diversity. These discoveries were made by analyzing genetic data using a machine learning model, which identified previously unrecognized viruses hidden in public databases.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·September 5, 2024·2 min read

RNA Therapy Improves Memory and Reduces Anxiety

An RNA-based therapy, COG-201, can enhance memory and reduce anxiety in animal models by targeting the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor. Scientists found that decreasing this receptor’s expression led to improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety-like behaviors in mice and rats.

Featured Genetics Neurology Neuroscience

·January 18, 2024·5 min read

RNA Interference Plays Key Role in Alzheimer’s Disease

A new study suggests that RNA interference plays a crucial role in the disease. Researchers discovered that aging and Alzheimer’s-affected brains have an imbalance between toxic and protective short RNAs (sRNAs), leading to brain cell death and DNA damage.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Psychology

·November 30, 2023·5 min read

RNA’s Pivotal Role in Fear Memory and PTSD Treatment

Researchers have revealed a groundbreaking role of RNA in fear-related learning and memory. Their study shows how noncoding RNA Gas5 influences neuronal excitability, impacting learning and memory processes.

Featured Genetics Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·March 8, 2023·4 min read

Modifying Messenger RNA May Provide a New Target for Alzheimer’s Disease

Targeting and reducing the methylation of a key mRNA promoted the migration of macrophages in the brain and can improve cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles Psychology

·March 7, 2023·4 min read

Blood Test for Anxiety Developed

A newly developed blood test screens for biomarkers associated with anxiety to determine a person's risk of developing the disorder as well as monitor the severity of symptoms in those with anxiety.

Featured Neuroscience Open Neuroscience Articles

·February 10, 2023·4 min read

Cocaine Use Disorder Alters Gene Networks of Neuroinflammation and Neurotransmission in Humans

Cocaine use disorder alters gene expression in the nucleus accumbens and caudate nucleus, brain areas associated with reward, and the mediation of habit formation.