Stymied in the search for genes underlying human neuropsychiatric diseases, some researchers are looking to dogs instead. David Cyranoski meets the geneticist's new best friend.

Conflicting results cloud link to prion protein.

Conflicting results cloud link to prion protein.

Researchers have rallied round a promising molecule for rescuing dying nerves. But getting it into the brain remains a daunting challenge, finds Brian Vastag.

Researchers have rallied round a promising molecule for rescuing dying nerves. But getting it into the brain remains a daunting challenge, finds Brian Vastag.

Those without siblings may not lack social skills after all.

Those without siblings may not lack social skills after all.

Canadian scientists vindicated after being accused of mistreating laboratory animals.

Canadian scientists vindicated after being accused of mistreating laboratory animals.

Metal wires 'catalyse' appearance of rogue proteins from healthy brain tissue.

Metal wires 'catalyse' appearance of rogue proteins from healthy brain tissue.

FDA investigation at Columbia University serves as warning to other centres, say experts.

FDA investigation at Columbia University serves as warning to other centres, say experts.

A survey of the cognitive benefits of music makes a valid case for its educational importance. But that's not the best reason to teach all children music, says Philip Ball.

A survey of the cognitive benefits of music makes a valid case for its educational importance. But that's not the best reason to teach all children music, says Philip Ball.

Automated analysis of audio recordings could accelerate language research.

Automated analysis of audio recordings could accelerate language research.

Astrocytes may have an important role in regulating breathing.

Astrocytes may have an important role in regulating breathing.

The punishment of antisocial behaviour seems necessary for a stable society. But how should it be policed, and how severe should it be? Game theory offers some answers, Philip Ball finds.