Mutations to Dyrk1a gene lead to brain undergrowth; an existing drug rescues the condition in newborn mice
A genetic mutation linked to autism causes significant undergrowth of brain tissue. An existing medicine appears to rescue the condition in mouse studies.
Damage to the autism-associated gene Dyrk1a, sets off a cascade of problems in developing mouse brains, resulting in abnormal growth-factor signaling, undergrowth of neurons, smaller-than-average brain size, and, eventually, autism-like behaviors, a new study from Scripps Research, Florida, finds.
The study from neuroscientist Damon Page, PhD, describes a new mechanism underlying the brain undergrowth seen in individuals with Dyrk1a mutations. Page’s team used those insights to target the affected pathway with an existing medicine, a growth hormone. It restored normal brain growth in the Dyrk1a mutant mice, Page says.
Transitional Shelter Program in Sucker Garden renewed
Close Transitional Shelter Program in Sucker Garden renewed
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The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (VSA), Richard Panneflek is elated to announce that the transitional shelter program has been extended for one year. A public bidding process will also be underway to ensure a contract for 2 to 3 years is established in line with transparency and good governance. By securing the contract for a year, the Ministry of VSA along with the Dr. J. Foundation was able to secure shelter for 32 persons who would have been homeless, had the contract not been renewed. Among the 32 were pensioners, families with children, and other individuals. Upon taking office, it was apparent that not only is homelessness a result of the passing of hurricanes Irma, Maria and Jose but also due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, it has become apparent that homelessness is not an acute issue but a chroni
Published: 24 January 2021
PHILIPSBURG: - The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (VSA), Richard Panneflek is elated to announce that the transitional shelter program has been extended for one year. A public bidding process will also be underway to ensure a contract for 2 to 3 years is established in line with transparency and good governance. By securing the contract for a year, the Ministry of VSA along with the Dr. J. Foundation was able to secure shelter for 32 persons who would have been homeless, had the contract not been renewed. Among the 32 were pensioners, families with children, and other individuals. Upon taking office, it was apparent that not only is homelessness a result of the passing of hurricanes Irma, Maria, and Jose but also due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, it has become apparent that homelessness is not an acute issue but a chronic issue affecting our community.