New tool maps cell types in lab-grown blobs of brain tissue
The software compares gene expression in cells derived from organoids with a reference atlas of the developing mouse brain.
Rare or common, inherited or spontaneous, mutations form the core of autism risk.
The software compares gene expression in cells derived from organoids with a reference atlas of the developing mouse brain.
A large, whole-genome sequencing study of families yields insights into ultra-rare genetic variants that contribute to autism.
Neurons in mice with an autism-linked mutation sprout extraneous protrusions, an overgrowth accompanied by above-average motor learning. Inhibiting a cell signaling pathway reverses the effect.
A transplant of inhibitory neurons during the second week of life prevents social difficulties and a brain signaling imbalance in mice missing a copy of FOXG1.
A mutation in the autism-linked gene SHANK3 changes how neurons encode information about social agency in mice.
Mosaic mutations, which affect only some of the body’s cells, play a small but meaningful role in autism. Though they are difficult to study, researchers are working to master their complexity.
Cross-species comparisons can help make sense of subtle genetic variants in people with autism and identify hundreds of new genes that may contribute to the condition.
Many of the genes strongly linked to autism are involved in the remodeling of chromatin, the complex of DNA and proteins that makes up chromosomes. Scientists are just beginning to understand why.
A mouse model hints that genes linked to inflammation in some women may increase the likelihood of autism in their children.
Neuronal axons ignore guidance cues after a mutation in the gene TSC2 disrupts signaling through RhoA, a protein regulated by many autism-linked genes.