Karen Weintraub is a freelance writer based in Boston, Massachusetts.
Karen Weintraub
Freelance Writer
Simons Foundation/Freelance
From this contributor
Technique follows calcium trail to track changes in signaling
Researchers have genetically engineered neurons to fluoresce in response to the calcium signals emitted when they fire, according to a study published 18 October in Neuron.
Technique follows calcium trail to track changes in signaling
By
Karen Weintraub
24 October 2012 | 2 min read
Researchers uncover new drug target for fragile X
Deleting an enzyme that regulates protein synthesis reverses some of the molecular and behavioral deficits in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome, according to research published 2 October in Neuron.
Researchers uncover new drug target for fragile X
By
Karen Weintraub
4 October 2012 | 5 min read
Drug improves social deficits in fragile X syndrome
A drug called arbaclofen improves behavioral problems in people with fragile X syndrome, an inherited condition that can lead to mental retardation and autism, according to the results of a clinical trial published today in Science Translational Medicine. A second study published in the same journal showed that the drug restores normal brain function in a mouse model of the disorder.
Drug improves social deficits in fragile X syndrome
By
Karen Weintraub
19 September 2012 | 5 min read
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Oligodendrocytes need mechanical cues to myelinate axons correctly
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Modern AI is simply no match for the complexity likely required for harboring consciousness, says Jaan Aru
He argues that our brain’s computations are of a completely different nature than any artificial intelligence because they take place across many spatial and temporal scales and are inextricably entwined with biological materials.
Modern AI is simply no match for the complexity likely required for harboring consciousness, says Jaan Aru
He argues that our brain’s computations are of a completely different nature than any artificial intelligence because they take place across many spatial and temporal scales and are inextricably entwined with biological materials.
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Paul Middlebrooks
11 February 2026 | 1 min read
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