Helen Pearson is a science writer based in New York City.
Helen Pearson
Freelance writer
Simons Foundation
From this contributor
Father’s advanced age feeds autism risk
Are older fathers more likely to have children with autism? A series of epidemiological studies is giving credence to the idea, suggesting that, with age, sperm may accumulate damage that increases risk in the next generation.
Sense of ‘self’ impaired in autism
People with autism struggle to see their own role in social situations. That's the conclusion from the first study to scan individualsʼ brains while they interact with another person - a technique that could lead to a diagnostic tool.
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