The brain’s ability to think, feel, and move depends on a delicate balance of electrical and chemical signals. These signals travel across synapses, where one neuron passes a message to the next. Proteins like PTPδ help these synapses form properly by acting like molecular Velcro—linking neurons together with precise alignment.

In their study, the researchers genetically engineered mice to delete mini-exon B from the PTPδ gene. The results were dramatic: Mice missing mini-exon B entirely had a survival rate of less than 30% after birth, highlighting its essential role in early brain development and viability.

On the other hand, mice with one copy of the gene altered survived into adulthood but displayed clear behavioral changes, including anxiety-like behavior and reduced movement.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

Neuroscience & Psychology

Neuroscience & Psychology

Tiny Genetic Code Disruption Alters Brain Wiring and Behavior A small genetic sequence called mini-exon B plays a surprisingly crucial role in how neurons form synaptic connections, according to new research. Scientists found that deleting this four–amino…

The brain’s ability to think, feel, and move depends on a delicate balance of electrical and chemical signals. These signals travel across synapses, where one neuron passes a message to the next. Proteins like PTPδ help these synapses form properly by acting like molecular Velcro—linking neurons together with precise alignment.

In their study, the researchers genetically engineered mice to delete mini-exon B from the PTPδ gene. The results were dramatic: Mice missing mini-exon B entirely had a survival rate of less than 30% after birth, highlighting its essential role in early brain development and viability.

On the other hand, mice with one copy of the gene altered survived into adulthood but displayed clear behavioral changes, including anxiety-like behavior and reduced movement.

🆔@neurocognitionandlearning

hottg.com/neurocognitionandlearning/5092

279 viewsedited  May 24 at 05:13