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Genetics

Genetics articles related to neuroscience research will be listed here.

The image shows the neural projections formed from a mouse embryonic stem cell. The caption best describes this image.

·February 26, 2013·2 min read

Sweet News for Stem Cell’s ‘Holy Grail’

Using a sugar-coated scaffold, researchers move closer to unlocking the therapeutic use of stem cells to treat a wide range of diseases from Alzheimer's to diabetes.

The image shows pencil drawings of sea lampreys by Alexander Francis Lydon.

Featured Genetics

·February 25, 2013·3 min read

Scientists Find Genes Linked to Human Neurological Disorders in Sea Lamprey Genome

Scientists have identified several genes linked to human neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injury, in the sea lamprey. The lamprey has large, identified neurons in its brain and spinal cord, making it an excellent model to study regeneration at the single cell-level.

The image is a model of the L! protein. The caption best describes the image.

Featured Genetics

·February 20, 2013·4 min read

Signaling Pathway Linked to Fetal Alcohol Risk

Research have identified a signaling pathway that might determine genetic susceptibility for the development of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

The image shows a comparative brain PET scan of a person with alzheimer's and one without the disease.

Featured Genetics

·February 20, 2013·6 min read

Genome-Wide Imaging Study Identifies New Gene Associated with Alzheimer’s Plaques

Researchers combined genetic data with neuroimaging in order to identify genes associated with amyloid plaque deposits in Alzheimer's disease patients. The study is believed to be the first genome-wide association study of plaque deposits using a specialized PET scan tracer that binds to amyloid.

The image shows lead researcher Paolo Macciarini performing surgery.

Featured Genetics

·February 18, 2013·2 min read

Stem Cell Based Bioartificial Tissues and Organs

Known for successfully transplanting a bioengineered stem cell-based trachea, surgeon Paolo Macchiarini plans to use his technique to recreate more complex tissue. He has recently made attempts to regenerate brain tissue in rats and mice.

The image shows a brain scan of a person with Behcet's disease.

Featured Genetics

·February 15, 2013·3 min read

Researchers Uncover New Findings on Genetic Risks of Behçet’s Disease

Researchers identify regions of genes linked to Behçet’s disease, a poorly understood condition that causes painful and serious symptoms, including ulcers and brain inflammation. The study identified novel gene variants in the inflammatory disorder and uncovered data that could apply to studies of other diseases.

This is a drawing of a person's right eye.

Featured Genetics

·February 15, 2013·2 min read

Research Uncovers a Potential link Between Parkinson’s and Visual Problems

According to a new study, the most common genetic cause of Parkinson’s is not only responsible for the condition’s distinctive movement problems but may also affect vision.

Corticogenesis with six cortical layers is shown.

Autism Featured Genetics Neurology

·February 11, 2013·3 min read

Genes for Autism and Schizophrenia Only Active in Developing Brains

Genes linked to autism and schizophrenia are only switched on during the early stages of brain development, according to a study in mice led by researchers at the University of Oxford.

The image shows Gage Crump, head research for this project.

Featured Genetics

·February 11, 2013·3 min read

Researchers Uncover Genetic Clues Which may Lead to Better Understanding of Organ Development and Birth Defects

Researchers have discovered clues to the development of the head at the cellular level, which could point scientists to a better understanding of how organs and birth defects form in humans.

The photograph shows a bulldog with a sad looking face.

Featured Genetics

·February 8, 2013·2 min read

Putting our Heads Together: Canines may Hold Clues to Human Skull Development

Reviewing research on dog cranium development, scientists consider how the information garnered over the past eight years could help us understand human skull development.

The image shows Jacob with a female researcher.

Featured Genetics

·February 7, 2013·5 min read

Experimental Gene Therapy Treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy offers Hope for Youngster

A nationwide clinical trial for a new type treatment that could offer help to those suffering from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a devastating neuromuscular disease.

The image shows the structure of protein LRRK2.

Featured Genetics

·February 6, 2013·4 min read

Study Points to Possible Cause and Treatment for Non-familial Parkinson’s

Researchers identify a protein trafficking defect within brain cells that may underlie common non-familial forms of Parkinson’s disease. The study implicates two genetic variants that disrupt protein sorting in neurons.