neuroscience, genetics & genomics

Environmental magnetite in the human brain; prion structure takes shape; watching E. coli evolve in real time; learning from others’ behavior 

As researchers sequence the DNA of thousands of kids with autism, dozens of genetic subgroups are emerging.

Researchers identify a new ALS-associated gene thanks to funds generated by the social media challenge that went viral in summer 2014.

Genetic evidence suggests that overactive synaptic pruning drives development of schizophrenia.

As the rhythmic expression of many genes falls out of sync in older human brains, a subset of transcripts gain rhythmicity with age.

A single nucleotide polymorphism in BDNF is tied with lower levels of the protein and higher body-mass index.

Using chemogenetic tools to spur the brain into action

The long-sought genetic link between handedness and language lateralization patterns in the brain is turning out to be illusory.

Stoned, Anxious, The Deeper Genome, and Testosterone

Researchers link disease-associated mutations to excitatory and inhibitory signaling in the brain.

Reconstructing the past using ancient DNA

Researchers use chemicals to manipulate the behavior of mice.

The Genealogy of a Gene, On the Move, The Chimp and the River, and Domesticated

How one of the rarest neurodegenerative diseases could lend insight into ubiquitous neuroprotective processes

The cholesterol-lowering drugs could be used to treat people with two types of dwarfism, a study suggests.

A study that identified genes linked to communication between different areas of the brain has been retracted by its authors because of statistical flaws. 

Studying handedness in chimps may shed light on the mysterious trait in humans.

Antidepressant could prevent Alzheimer’s plaques; 12,000-year-old human skeleton sequenced; disentangling the mystery of octopus arms; taking a look at the ocular microbiome

Synthetic base pairs replicated in vivo; cardiac stem cells questioned; miniature neurotransmissions and synaptic development; neurogenesis and memory loss; STAP saga continues

Male scientists stress mice out; using SCNT to reprogram adult cells; acetate can reach mouse brain, reduce appetite; WHO sounds “post-antibiotic era” alarm