NINDS

April 11, 2014

Myelin junctions key to conduction

A protein in the myelin coating on nerves helps form a “seal” that enables effective nerve conduction; loss of the protein causes inherited neuropathies.

By Leigh MacMillan
January 10, 2014

A pain in the … genes

Vanderbilt researchers have discovered that variation in the gene encoding the potassium channel GIRK1 plays a role in modulating human pain perception.

By Leigh MacMillan
December 12, 2013

VU study points to central regulator of neuron development

Developmental biologist Chin Chiang, Ph.D., and his colleagues have discovered that Purkinje neurons in the cerebellum act as central regulators of neuronal development.

By Leigh MacMillan
March 4, 2013

Gene ‘dose’ may be key to autism

Individuals with overexpression of the gene MECP2 have core features of autism spectrum disorder.

By Bill Snyder
September 19, 2012

How ‘Jedi’ disposes of dead neurons

The protein Syk is essential for clearing away neuron “corpses” in the developing peripheral nervous system.

By Leigh MacMillan
September 6, 2012

Neuronal subtypes in genetic disorder

Inhibitory neurons that connect and regulate signaling in the brain (interneurons) may contribute to epilepsy and autism in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex.

By Leigh MacMillan
July 17, 2012

Insights for neuroscience drug discovery

When discovering drugs for brain disorders, it’s important to test the candidates in multiple ways to avoid advancing those with restricted physiological effects.
By Leigh MacMillan
June 14, 2012

Roots of childhood brain tumors

Cells in the back of the developing brain can give rise to brain tumors, suggesting they may be a target for treatment.
By Leigh MacMillan
May 10, 2012

Probing epilepsy’s molecular sparks

Understanding how mutations in neuronal receptors contribute to epilepsy could lead to improved therapies.
By Leigh MacMillan
March 9, 2012

Combo combats dizziness

Some patients may need a combo of medications to combat a condition that causes dizziness.
By VUMC News and Communications
February 1, 2012

Treatment window for genetic disorder

Treatment with a drug used to prevent organ rejection partially reverses the course of tuberous sclerosis, research in mice suggests.
By VUMC News and Communications
January 5, 2012

Fishing for heart attack repair tools

By Leigh MacMillan
September 30, 2011

Drug-like molecules aimed at improving treatment of Parkinson’s

Drug-like molecules described by Vanderbilt researchers could lead to Parkinson's treatments with fewer side effects.
By Bill Snyder