Using genetic signatures to better classify spinal neurons

Professor Samuel Pfaff builds on previous research to develop genetic tags that can be used to classify spinal neurons

Professor Samuel Pfaff at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies builds on previous work revealing important principles related to neural development, gene regulation, axon guidance and connectivity, and spinal motor circuit function. Spinal neurons were traditionally grouped into around 12 cardinal classes – but this doesn’t describe their full diversity. Now, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies team has developed […]

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Unravelling the cellular mechanism of spinal muscular atrophy: from gene and modifiers to therapy

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a common neuromuscular disease characterised by weakness and wasting of muscles. People with the most severe form of the disease are unable to sit or walk and die within the first two years of life. Although the genetics of SMA are well understood, the cellular mechanisms involved are unclear and there is currently no cure. […]

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