A study published in Molecular Psychiatry identified a genetic mutation linked to healthy information processing, shedding light on cognitive aging and age-related diseases. The CADM2 gene was found to be strongly associated with performance on tests of information processing speed.
Researchers found that very small brain lesions noted on imaging are associated with a heightened risk of stroke and death. The discovery may help physicians identify people at risk for stroke before they have symptoms, even in middle age.
Researchers found that antidepressants given to rats during development led to brain abnormalities and behavioral traits similar to autism spectrum disorder. The study suggests a potential link between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and the rise in developmental disorders in children.
Scientists have developed a genetic map of African-Americans, revealing distinct recombination patterns that differ from those in Europeans. The map holds promise for understanding the roots of disease and identifying new disease genes, particularly in African-American populations.
A new study found that behavioral treatments for migraines, such as relaxation training and hypnosis, can be more cost-effective than prescription drugs in the long run. After six months, minimal-contact behavioral treatment was competitive with pharmacologic treatments, while after one year, it was nearly $500 cheaper.
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is leading a nationwide NIH-funded investigation to identify risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, with a focus on vascular risk factors and ethnic differences. The $26 million study will examine thousands of patients using detailed neurocognitive testing and brain imaging.