The official MedZine Blog

After years of discussion, scientists finally seem to have found the answer to what determines our behaviour: genetics or environmental factors. Apparently, no clear distinction can be made between the two, because both contribute equally. This simultaneously implies that every trait is hereditary, in contrast to previous assumptions. The VU Amsterdam and the University of Queensland, Brisbane, presented the results of the largest twin study yet in Nature Genetics. Continue reading

A new therapy against epilepsy has been tested successfully in rodents. The new therapy consists of a one-time injection with a modified virus. From then on, incidentally taking a pill can suppress epileptic seizures. Testing the medication showed no additional effects on normal brain function. Dimitri Kullman and colleagues from the University College London (UCL) published the results in Nature Communications on May 27th. Continue reading

Also this week MedZine brings you the latest medical news on various medical specialisms. In this editorial some striking studies are highlighted. This week we have selected two studies, both concerning neurological breakthroughs. The first describes the development of a process that renders a whole brain transparent. The second study sheds light on one of the major toxic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease. Continue reading