Briefs
Autistics' sense of self impairs broader understanding
People with high functioning autism have a lack of "self" recognition, which in turn could impair their relations with others, said Baylor College of Medicine researchers in a report in the journal Neuron.
Mouse offers important genetic clues about muscle-wasting disorder
The altered genetic code in specially bred mice cause symptoms similar to those of people with myotonic dystrophy and give researchers a special window on the dynamics of the disease, said a Baylor College of Medicine researcher.
Dual role for gene: blood producer, infection fighter
A gene known to prompt production of cells in the blood system also responds to stress, prompting protection against toxins or infection, said researchers from Baylor College of Medicine.
Fine-tuned synapse number critical to healthy brain
The protein called methyl-CpG binding protein 2 or MeCP2, known to play a role in development of the neurodevelopmental disorder Rett syndrome, in its normal state fine-tunes the number of synapses. Too much or too little causes a problem, said researchers from Baylor College of Medicine.
Protein mesothelin found to spur pancreatic cancer
The protein mesothelin appears to play a role in promoting the growth of pancreatic cancer and could provide a target for vaccines, said researchers from Baylor College of Medicine.
A Matter of Health
Passion plays an important role in science, but good labs run on organization as well.
