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Spectrum: Autism Research News

Tag: stem cells

September 2019
simulated embryos seen developing over time

Human embryo model provides window into early development

by  /  30 September 2019

A 3D model of a human embryo reveals the biological processes that unfold in early development.

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triangle effect digital rendering shows the shapes of a red neuron network

Drug screen reveals potential treatments for Rett syndrome

by  /  11 September 2019

An experimental leukemia drug and a chemical in black pepper ease breathing and movement problems in a mouse model of Rett syndrome.

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August 2019

Brain organoids show realistic neuronal firing rhythms

by  /  29 August 2019

Brain organoids made from typical human stem cells begin to show synchronized neuronal firing patterns after growing in a dish for at least four months.

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Portrait of scientist Alysson Muotri

Autism researcher Alysson Muotri’s audacious plans for brain organoids

by  /  12 August 2019

Alysson Muotri aims to build a ‘thinking’ brain as a model for autism — even if his colleagues consider that work controversial.

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July 2019
organoids in petri dishes

New recipe yields set of strikingly similar brain organoids

by  /  26 July 2019

A new method enables scientists to grow organoids that reliably reproduce the diversity of cells at the brain’s surface.

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Experts question rationale for stem cell trial for autism

by  /  25 July 2019

Results from a new trial suggest that it’s safe to treat autistic children with umbilical cord stem cells. But parents must pay for the pricey infusions, and no one knows how or if the cells work.

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Synapses in brain organoids

Database, lab tricks may crack secrets of the synapse

by  /  19 July 2019

Two new resources may aid the study of synapses, the junctions between neurons.

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June 2019
Two organoids connected by nerve fibers

In new device, brain organoids ‘talk’ to each other

by  /  14 June 2019

A novel cell culture device enables researchers to grow bundles of nerve fibers from stem cells, mimicking the tissue that connects distant parts of the brain.

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May 2019
grid of lab grown neurons

New method creates uniform cultures of lab-grown neurons

by  /  16 May 2019

A new technique leads to neuron cultures of consistent quality, enabling scientists to study how autism mutations alter neurons.

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organoid

New method creates complex, long-lived brain ‘organoids’

by  /  10 May 2019

A new method for growing brain organoids allows them to survive for up to a year — more than four times as long as is possible with other methods.

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