David Dobbs writes about science, music, sports, and other forms of culture, and is the author of Reef Madness: Alexander Agassiz, Charles Darwin, and The Meaning of Coral and other books.
David Dobbs
Contributing writer
The Transmitter
From this contributor
Remembering Mark Hallett, leader in transcranial magnetic stimulation
The long-time NINDS researcher, best known for studying movement disorders, has died at age 82.
Remembering Mark Hallett, leader in transcranial magnetic stimulation
By
David Dobbs
25 November 2025 | 7 min read
The new history of autism, part III
For decades, two figures have dominated the history of autism studies. Today, newly excavated documents are calling into question the primacy of these men as founders of the field.
The new history of autism, part II
For decades, two figures have dominated the history of autism studies. Today, newly excavated documents are calling into question the primacy of these men as founders of the field.
The new history of autism, part I
For decades, two figures have dominated the history of autism studies. Today, newly excavated documents are calling into question the primacy of these men as founders of the field.
Rethinking regression in autism
The loss of abilities that besets some toddlers with autism is probably less sudden and more common than anyone thought.
Explore more from The Transmitter
Interneurons’ role in epilepsy, and more
Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 9 February.
Interneurons’ role in epilepsy, and more
Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 9 February.
By
Jill Adams
10 February 2026 | 1 min read
Aging neurons outsource garbage disposal, clog microglia
Degradation-resistant proteins pass from neurons to glial cells in a process that may spread protein clumps around the brain, according to a study in mice.
Aging neurons outsource garbage disposal, clog microglia
Degradation-resistant proteins pass from neurons to glial cells in a process that may spread protein clumps around the brain, according to a study in mice.
By
Holly Barker
10 February 2026 | 4 min read
Oregon primate research center to negotiate with NIH on possible transition to sanctuary
The board of directors at Oregon Health & Science University, which runs the primate center, voted unanimously in favor of the move.
Oregon primate research center to negotiate with NIH on possible transition to sanctuary
The board of directors at Oregon Health & Science University, which runs the primate center, voted unanimously in favor of the move.
By
Calli McMurray
9 February 2026 | 6 min read