PMDSF 2011

Recent articles

Spectrum from The Transmitter.

Root strategy

A new technique for creating stem cells from hair may help researchers understand how neurons and the junction between them form.

By Deborah Rudacille
11 March 2011 | 3 min read
Spectrum from The Transmitter.

Meeting brings unusual focus to Phelan-McDermid syndrome

The first international meeting on Phelan-McDermid syndrome brought together researchers and family members of those affected by the disorder, sparking collaboration and some emotion.

By Deborah Rudacille
10 March 2011 | 3 min read
Spectrum from The Transmitter.

First-ever Phelan-McDermid meeting has its Eureka moments

The First International Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Symposium, held last week in New York City, brought together scientists and patient advocates to share insights — including a surprising realization about mice missing the SHANK3 gene.

By Virginia Hughes
10 March 2011 | 6 min read

Explore more from The Transmitter

Research image of mice microglia.

Single-gene systems-level effects, and more

Here is a roundup of autism-related news and research spotted around the web for the week of 6 April.

By Jill Adams
7 April 2026 | 2 min read
Book cover of The Brain, In Theory by Romain Brette.

‘The Brain, In Theory,’ an excerpt

In his new book, Brette pushes back against theories that describe the brain as a “biological computer.” In this excerpt from Chapter 4, he challenges equating brain evolution with programming, and the universality of neural network models.

By Romain Brette
7 April 2026 | 5 min read
Kieth Hengen looks through a small window, aligning his face with a fancy moustache sticker and rolling his eyes comically to the side.

Computational neuroscientist Keith Hengen explains his work through illustrations

The images help him communicate the “big-picture ideas” behind the mathematical principles of neuronal networks.

By Helena Kudiabor
7 April 2026 | 4 min read