A magnetically sensitive protein allows researchers to switch on neurons in freely moving mice and zebrafish.

Criss-crossing the globe on a quest for unusual DNA, researchers have discovered a rare mutation that promises insights into both epilepsy and autism — and points to a treatment.

Astrocytes modulate most — if not all — aspects of neuronal development. We need new techniques to study these star-shaped brain cells and their potential role in autism and other conditions.

Mice missing a gene called PTCHD1 in a deep-seated brain structure have autism-like symptoms that ease with treatment.

Autism may stem from faulty feedback loops in the brain, like an air conditioning system gone awry.

A new technique can stimulate and record activity across broad swaths of the monkey brain.

A new tool paints real-time pictures of brain circuits that could reveal altered neuronal activity in mouse models of autism.

By tracking calcium’s movement, a new algorithm simultaneously delineates individual neurons’ shapes as well as their firing patterns.

A new tool allows researchers to simultaneously study the physical, genetic and electrical properties of individual neurons.

A tool kit of light-sensitive proteins allows researchers to mute communication between specific sets of neurons in mice.