BPoD has moved!

BPoD has recently changed our domain name - we can now be found at bpod.org.uk

Please update your bookmarks!

Now in our 13th year of bringing you beautiful imagery from biomedical science every day

Search the archive of over 4000 images

Complex Cortex
03 August 2017

Complex Cortex

Autism is a complicated condition, with a range of symptoms and a spectrum of severity, linked to a number of genetic and environmental factors. In some specific cases, patients possess a mutation in a gene known as CHD8, which plays a role in packaging DNA. Mimicking the symptoms of autism in humans, mice with mutations in CHD8 demonstrate reduced cognitive ability and increased brain size, or megalencephaly. Shown is the developing cerebral cortex of a mouse, with different colours highlighting its multiple layers. CHD8 is especially highly-expressed early in development, and contributes to the correct development of this sophisticated structure. Later in life, mutations in CHD8 also impair other functions, such as the formation of synapses [connections between nerve cells]. While focusing only on rare and specific cases, research on CHD8 paves the way for other studies delving into the genetic mechanisms underlying autism.

Written by Emmanuelle Briolat

Search The Archive

Submit An Image

Follow on Tumblr

Follow on Instagram

What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

Read More

BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.