URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking genetic study has unveiled crucial insights into how brain cells are formed, revealing over 331 essential genes involved in this intricate process. Conducted by a team led by Prof. Sagiv Shifman at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the research, published on January 5, 2026, in Nature Neuroscience, has immediate implications for understanding neurodevelopmental disorders.
This significant study harnessed powerful CRISPR gene-editing technology to systematically disable nearly 20,000 genes in embryonic stem cells, pinpointing those critical for proper brain cell formation. Among the discoveries, the PEDS1 gene was identified as essential for nerve cell development and linked to a newly recognized neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts children’s brain growth.
The team’s research highlights the role of PEDS1 in producing plasmalogens, crucial components of myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers. When PEDS1 is dysfunctional, brain growth and the formation of nerve cells are impaired, potentially leading to conditions such as developmental delays and autism. Genetic testing in two unrelated families revealed rare mutations in PEDS1 associated with severe developmental symptoms, underscoring the gene’s importance.
Prof. Shifman emphasized, “By tracking the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into neural cells and systematically disrupting nearly all genes in the genome, we created a map of the genes essential for brain development.” This extensive mapping not only enhances our understanding of brain formation but also aids in identifying genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders that have yet to be fully understood.
The study’s findings create a foundation for potential advancements in genetic diagnosis and counseling for families affected by these conditions. The researchers also produced an “essentiality map” to distinguish genetic mechanisms linked to autism and developmental delays, providing critical insights for clinicians and researchers.
To share these findings with the global scientific community, the team launched an open online database, allowing researchers access to their comprehensive data. Prof. Shifman noted, “We wanted our findings to serve the entire scientific community, supporting ongoing work on the genes we identified.”
The implications of this research are profound, potentially guiding future interventions and treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders. As scientists continue to explore the genetic underpinnings of brain development, this study marks a pivotal moment in our understanding of how genetic factors shape neurological health.
Stay tuned for more updates on how these findings will impact research and treatment for neurodevelopmental conditions worldwide.
