Researchers identified a specific stem cell in young brains capable of maturing into multiple cell types, potentially explaining the origins of autism and glioblastoma. These stem cells show gene expression patterns that regulate early brain development and, when disrupted, could lead to neurological conditions.

The study provides a detailed gene expression map, linking autism-related genes to immature neurons active during brain growth. The findings open avenues for better understanding the developmental roots of autism. Here’s more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08351-7

A group of New York State representatives filed legislation to legalize the possession, use, and cultivation of certain natural plant and fungus based hallucinogens, including psilocybin, Ibogaine and mescaline.

If enacted, Assembly Bill A00628 would remove these substances from the state’s list of schedule 1 controlled substances. The bill would also prohibit employers from discriminating against employees for the legal use of these substances outside of work hours, and allow religious organizations and non-commercial entities to use them for ceremonial, supportive, or religious purposes. You can read the details of the bill here: https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1766079

Silo Pharma announced that it was awarded a U.S. Patent for its PTSD treatment, SPC-15.

SPC-15 is an intranasal formulation of the serotonin 5-HT4 receptor agonist designed to treat stress-induced disorders such as PTSD and anxiety. The company holds an exclusive license agreement with Columbia University to further develop, manufacture, and commercialize SPC-15 globally. Through the agreement, Silo acquired extensive issued patents and pending IP patent applications for SPC-15 technology. Here’s more: https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/08/3006256/0/en/Silo-Pharma-Awarded-US-Patent-for-Groundbreaking-PTSD-Treatment-and-Prepares-for-SPC-15-Clinical-Trial.html

Did you know that ancient brain circuits light up so we can judge people on first impressions?

In 2009, neuroscientists at New York University and Harvard University identified the neural systems involved in forming first impressions of others. The findings, which were reported in the journal Nature Neuroscience, showed how age-old brain circuitry evolved to make snap decisions on the importance of objects in the environment.  We now use these snap decisions in social situations.  

According to the study’s lead author, Daniela Schiller, humans have always been engaged in making decisions on what's important and what's not, and social decision making is taking advantage of these primary systems in the brain.

Schiller noted that whenever you need to assign value to something, you use the same mechanism, whether it's an inanimate object or a person. “It's like there's one common currency in the brain.” Here’s more: https://www.nyu.edu/about/news-publications/news/2009/march/scientists_identify_the_neural.html