ASHG 2018

Recent articles

Microscopic view of spermatozoa

Some autism mutations go undetected, new study suggests

Some mutations that contribute to autism and arise spontaneously may be mistaken for inherited mutations.

By Jessica Wright
5 December 2018 | 5 min read

Massive sequencing project identifies new genetic syndromes

The largest-ever set of sequences from people with developmental delay has revealed 43 new genetic diagnoses.

By Jessica Wright
23 October 2018 | 3 min read
Brain cells under magnification glow red, purple and blue.

Mini-brains may pin down key genes in large mutations

Clusters of brain cells — so-called 'mini-brains' grown in the lab — may help researchers understand how large stretches of duplicated or deleted DNA affect the brain.

By Jessica Wright
22 October 2018 | 3 min read
A digital drawing shows two groups of people forming large arrows, see from above.

Mutation types tied to autism converge on shared set of genes

Genes linked to autism in sequencing studies tend be located in long stretches of DNA that are duplicated or missing in some people with developmental conditions.

By Jessica Wright
18 October 2018 | 3 min read
A boy toddler learns to walk with an adult holding his hands.

Some ‘autism genes’ show stronger ties to related conditions

The largest autism sequencing study to date implicates 99 genes in the condition — but nearly half have a tighter link to intellectual disability or developmental delay.

By Jessica Wright
17 October 2018 | 3 min read

Explore more from The Transmitter

Illustration of a binocular view of a hilly path leading towards a temple.

Amid funding uncertainty, graduate neuroscience programs in the U.S. adapt

The Transmitter surveyed 50 graduate program directors to learn how they’re faring. Securing labs for new students is one of the greatest concerns.

By Emily Singer
9 November 2026 | 15 min read
Illustration of a pillar in the shape of a question mark.

The changing nature of the neuroscience Ph.D.

The best science can only be sustained by a steady influx of early-stage scientists and the innovative ideas they bring, says Diane Lipscombe. She reflects on the loss of international students, the value of training grants, and the challenges that lie ahead for graduate education.

By Emily Singer
9 November 2026 | 7 min read
Illustration of marble bust with pixels taken out of it.

Rethinking neuroscience graduate education in the age of AI

What knowledge from traditional training protocols needs to be maintained, what can be discarded, and what new types of training should be introduced? Six neuroscientists weigh in.

By Mark Goldman
9 November 2026 | 17 min read