Scientists at Yale University have identified the molecular mechanism in the brain that facilitates normal information processing within the cerebral cortex. Known for its key function in memory, attention, thought, language and consciousness, the structure is composed of groupings of neurons that assemble in the shape of vertical columns.
When a malformation occurs within those columns, an individual may suffer from a developmental disability such as autism or mental retardation.
Led by Pasko Rakic, M.D., Ph.D., professor and chairman of the department of neurobiology, who also serves as head of the Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, researchers focused on expression among two genes: A-type Eph receptor and ephrin-As; ultimately determining that the lateral movement by neurons within that space could result in abnormal column development.
Dr. Rakic is a recipient of the 1995 Distinguished Investigator award. Masaaki Torri, Ph.D., a 2007 Young Investigator grant recipient, served as co-author.
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