A reanalysis of data published in a 2024 Nature paper spotlights the tension between curiosity and caution when searching for gene candidates. The 2024 study, led by Stephen Quake, professor of bioengineering and applied physics at Stanford University, claimed to reveal changes in gene expression associated with a mouse’s memory of a foot shock. Quake […]
What if forgetfulness isn’t a flaw but a clue to how the brain really works? In this fascinating episode, memory researcher and ADHD coach Daniella Karidi helps us unravel the layers of how we remember, why we forget, and what makes memory especially tricky for those with ADHD. You’ll walk away questioning everything you thought […]
Illustration by Laurenne Boglio Welcome to the first monthly edition of Null and Noteworthy. We’ve doubled the newsletter’s frequency to deliver more notable null results and replications direct to your inbox. Thanks, as always, for your feedback, and please continue to send your thoughts, ideas, interesting studies and cat photos to laura@spectrumnews.org. Let’s dive in. […]
Activation of serotonin receptors in the medial septum, a region along the midline of the brain, reverses social memory deficits in a mouse model of autism, according to new research. The results show a new mechanism by which serotonin shapes social function and suggest that the effects of the chemical messenger can vary depending on […]
Brain Boost: Electrical stimulation of the fornix weakened abnormal inhibitory signals in mice with CDKL5 mutations and restored their performance in learning and memory tasks. Manjurul / iStock Chronic electrical stimulation of the fornix, a bundle of nerve fibers deep in the brain, saves learning and memory deficits in mice with mutations in the autism-linked […]
Short circuit: Several genes linked to autism (top) and schizophrenia (bottom) are highly expressed in the thalamus of mice and, when mutated, appear to cause memory problems. Silencing multiple genes associated with autism or schizophrenia in the thalami of mice increases neuronal excitability there and leads to memory problems reminiscent of those in people with […]
Eric Williams said he remembered giving Jason his first pair of shoes after joining them when he was 10. Jason was eventually adopted by the couple and joined their two other children, Lyndon and Autumn. “He had never had anything like it; he had shoes but a good pair, ”said Eric Williams. “He was excited […]
