In a safety and feasibility trial of a cortical visual prosthesis, researchers observed progressive recovery of natural vision in a patient with complete blindness caused by irreversible optic nerve damage. Published in Brain Communications, this exceptional case suggests that cortical microstimulation and visual training may promote neural reorganization, warranting further study.

CURE SYNGAP1, a 501(c)(3) organization, is proud to announce the award of a $25,000 grant to Dr. Àlex Bayés Puig, Group Leader at the Fundació Institut de Recerca de l’Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau in Barcelona, Spain. Dr. Bayés’s innovative research project explores the potential of using T-cells as a biomarker for SYNGAP1-Related Disorders (SRD).

Flinders University researchers have discovered a rare genetic mutation that could explain why some people do not respond to newer schizophrenia treatments. The study reveals that an inherited change in the brain can completely block the function of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1), a receptor targeted by newer schizophrenia drugs making them ineffective.

Australian researchers have uncovered a crucial new mechanism that helps explain how the heart’s major blood vessels form during early development, and how disruptions to this process can lead to serious congenital heart defects.

Last year, at least one million people in the U.S. were hospitalized for respiratory virus illnesses like the flu or COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many of these individuals were at higher risk of getting infections due to living or working around young children who contract more respiratory infections. A new clinical trial led by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s (UMSOM) Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) will test a new experimental intranasal spray designed to boost immune defenses and reduce illness from respiratory viruses.