Researchers identify neurons capable of coordinating functional networks in the brain
A single neuron, through its axon, is capable of simultaneously producing different effects in separate areas of the cerebral cortex.... Read More...
synapses
Disease-causing repeats help human neurons function
Study reports repeats in genes associated with Fragile X syndrome normally regulate how and when proteins are made in neurons.... Read More...
Clues to genetic origins of schizophrenia revealed
A study of the Xhosa, an ancestral African population, sheds light on the genetic origins of schizophrenia. ... Read More...
Brain tumors remodel neuronal synapses to promote growth
Several variants of the PIK3CA gene drive brain tumor progression. Two of the variants alter the expression of genes involved in synapses. ... Read More...
Shaping the social networks of neurons
Researchers have identified a protein complex that both attracts and repels neurons during brain development.... Read More...
Largest autism genetics study identifies 102 associated genes
In the largest genetic sequencing study of autism conducted to date, researchers have identified 102 genes associated with the neurodevelopmental disorder. 49 of the genes were also associated with other developmental delays. The new study has enabled the researchers to increase the number of ASD associated genes from 65 to 102.... Read More...
Study finds evidence for reduced brain connections in schizophrenia
Neuroimaging study reveals decreased levels of the SV2A protein in synapses in patients with schizophrenia. The decrease in the protein could underlie the cognitive difficulties experienced by those with schizophrenia and provide new targets for treatment.... Read More...
Dendrites filtering neuron’s excitement
Purkinje cells can modulate and filter incoming signals. The findings shed new light on learning mechanisms within the cerebellum.... Read More...
How gene mutation causes autism and intellectual disability
Genetic mutations in Usp9X results in the brain growing fewer synapses during development. The mutation also causes hyperactivity and an increased risk of anxiety. The findings shed new light on the cause of autism and other intellectual disabilities.... Read More...
Technique can image individual proteins within synapses
A new rapid imaging technique allows researchers to view synaptic proteins at high resolution.... Read More...
Gene regulators work together for oversized impact on schizophrenia risk
Using CRISPR to alter the expression of four schizophrenia implicated genes which harbor expression quantitative trait loci, researchers were able to mirror gene expression changes seen in postmortem brains of those suffering from three mental health disorders.... Read More...
Opiates reduce the brain’s ability to form and maintain synapses
Opiate exposure causes synaptic rewiring in the nucleus accumbens in addition to decreasing dendritic spines. The findings shed light into the neurobiology of opiate relapse.... Read More...