FeaturedGeneticsNeurosciencePsychology·October 5, 2024·5 min readGene Activity in Depression Linked to Immune System and InflammationA new study reveals that inflammation and immune system activation are closely linked to major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly in those resistant to standard antidepressants. Researchers analyzed gene expression in people with depression, finding increased immune-related gene activity, especially in those with higher inflammation.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·October 3, 2024·4 min readEstrogen’s Quick Impact on Neurons via Clic1Researchers have discovered that estrogen's fast action on neurons is mediated by the estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-alpha) coupling with the chloride ion channel Clic1. This interaction allows estrogen to regulate nerve impulses within milliseconds, influencing processes like mood, cognition, and body weight.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscienceVisual Neuroscience·October 2, 2024·4 min readTargeting Protein Reduces Macular Degeneration SymptomsNew research identifies a protein, TIMP3, overproduced in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that may drive the disease’s progression. By targeting the enzyme linked to inflammation and drusen formation, scientists reduced early signs of AMD in stem cell models, offering hope for new treatments.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·October 1, 2024·5 min readCheek Swab Test Predicts Aging and Mortality RiskResearchers have developed a second-generation epigenetic clock called CheekAge, which accurately predicts mortality risk using cheek cell samples. Unlike earlier clocks based on blood samples, CheekAge is non-invasive and captures methylation patterns linked to aging and lifespan.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·October 1, 2024·3 min readNew Genetic Syndrome Links Brain Development and DegenerationResearchers have discovered a new genetic syndrome caused by a mutation in the SPAG9 gene that affects both neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. The study identified three siblings with intellectual disability, speech delays, and progressive cognitive decline, linking the mutation to disruptions in brain structure and function. Neuroimaging revealed abnormalities such as microcephaly, hippocampal malrotation, and cerebral atrophy.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·September 30, 2024·5 min readGenetic Variants Linked to Alzheimer’s Trigger Inflammation in FemalesResearchers have discovered that two genetic variants, APOE4 and TREM2 R47H, together cause a harmful inflammatory response in brain immune cells, particularly in females. This response leads to more severe brain damage, including tau protein clumps, which are linked to Alzheimer’s disease progression.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·September 30, 2024·4 min readShared Genetics Found in Bipolar Disorder and EpilepsyA new study reveals a genetic connection between bipolar disorder type I (BD-I) and epilepsy, showing shared genetic variants and a causal relationship between the two conditions. Researchers discovered six genomic loci linked to both disorders and highlighted the role of the SP4 gene, which may be key in treating both illnesses.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·September 30, 2024·4 min readPrion Disease Mutations Impact Synapses Before Symptoms AppearNew research reveals that prion disease mutations can alter the structure of neuron synapses long before symptoms emerge. Scientists studied neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) of patients with the E200K prion protein mutation, showing changes in neuron-to-neuron contact sites even in the absence of misfolded prion proteins.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeurologyNeuroscience·September 27, 2024·5 min readHuntington’s Protein Mutation Blocks DNA RepairResearchers have discovered that the protein mutated in Huntington’s Disease fails to properly repair DNA, leading to reduced brain cell healing. The huntingtin protein normally stimulates the production of PAR molecules, which gather around damaged DNA to facilitate repair.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·September 27, 2024·3 min readEnzyme Key to Brain Function and Synapse Health DiscoveredA new study reveals that the absence of the TRMT10A enzyme disrupts tRNA levels, leading to impaired protein synthesis and brain function. Researchers found that mice lacking the Trmt10a gene had decreased levels of key tRNAs, which affected neuronal synapses and cognitive abilities.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·September 27, 2024·4 min readCannabis Use in Pregnancy Alters Genes in Developing BrainNew research has found that cannabis use during pregnancy can cause molecular changes in the genes of exposed children, impacting brain development. The study identified significant DNA alterations in genes related to neurodevelopment, suggesting a direct link between prenatal cannabis exposure and developmental issues.Read More
FeaturedGeneticsNeuroscience·September 26, 2024·3 min readMitochondrial DNA Linked to Gulf War Illness Severity in VeteransGulf War illness (GWI), a chronic fatigue condition affecting veterans, is linked to genetic variants in mitochondrial DNA. These variants, inherited through the maternal line, appear to predispose some individuals to more severe symptoms of GWI after exposure to environmental toxins.Read More
