Research Keyword: dendritic spine

Identification of a psychiatric risk gene NISCH at 3p21.1 GWAS locus mediating dendritic spine morphogenesis and cognitive function

Researchers identified a gene called NISCH that increases the risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. When this gene is overactive, it changes the shape of connections between brain cells and impairs working memory in mice. Interestingly, blood pressure medications like clonidine can reduce NISCH activity and improve cognitive function, suggesting these drugs might help psychiatric patients.

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Deciphering the role of CAPZA2 in neurodevelopmental disorders: insights from mouse models

Scientists studied a gene called CAPZA2 that helps control how brain cells connect to each other. When this gene doesn’t work properly, mice had trouble learning, remembering things, and interacting socially, similar to intellectual disability in humans. The researchers found that the problem happens because the connections between brain cells become abnormal and don’t mature properly. This research helps explain why some people with mutations in this gene have developmental difficulties and could lead to new treatments.

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