Neuroscientists identify brain region linked to altered social interactions in autism model
In a mouse model, restoring activity of a specific forebrain region reverses social traits associated with autism.
Using gene editing, neuroscientists develop a new model for autism
By introducing a gene variant associated with autism into monkeys, researchers hope to study treatment options for severe neurodevelopmental disorders.
How we tune out distractions
Neuroscientists trace a brain circuit that filters unwanted sensory input.
Neuroscientists reverse some behavioral symptoms of Williams Syndrome
Mouse study yields insights into the rare condition, may shed light on other neurological disorders.
![An example of a therapy session augmented with humanoid robot NAO [SoftBank Robotics], which was used in the EngageMe study. Tracking of limbs/faces was performed using the CMU Perceptual Lab's OpenPose utility.](/sites/default/files/styles/term_page__news_article/public/images/201806/MIT-Autism-Robots.png?itok=WUVBwk3H)
Personalized “deep learning” equips robots for autism therapy
Machine learning network offers personalized estimates of children’s behavior.
Researchers identify important role for gene in 16p11.2 deletion autism
Study finds that major vault protein is needed for homeostatic plasticity.
Study: Distinct brain rhythms and regions help us reason about categories
High-frequency gamma oscillations sort similar-looking objects; lower-frequency beta oscillations kick in when connections are more abstract.
Q&A: Seth Mnookin on the fallacy of “both sides” journalism
"We’ve seen too many journalists confuse not taking sides with not calling out liars and frauds," says MIT researcher and author.
Promise seen in possible treatment for autism spectrum disorder
Studies in mice show improved social interaction and cognition from a potential therapeutic for a syndrome that often results in autism.
Studies help explain link between autism, severe infection during pregnancy
Bacterial populations in mother’s GI tract may play a central role.
New Center for Autism Research established at MIT’s McGovern Institute
A $20 million gift from Lisa Yang and Hock Tan ’75 SM ’75 will catalyze multidisciplinary autism research.
Scientists identify neurons devoted to social memory
Cells in the hippocampus store memories of acquaintances, a new study reports.
Neuroscientists illuminate role of autism-linked gene
Loss of Shank gene prevents neuronal synapses from properly maturing.
Learning more about the brain
Pawan Sinha explores the cognitive dynamics behind our visual understanding of the world around us.
!["[W]e hope that our studies of vps-50 will provide insights into human neuropsychiatric disorders,” H. Robert Horvitz says.](/sites/default/files/styles/term_page__news_article/public/images/201603/MIT-BehavorialStates.jpg?itok=0Jejll8C)
Neuroscientists discover a gene that controls worms’ behavioral state
Gene required for the control of behavioral state is also found in humans, may be linked to autism.