'Homer Simpson Gene' in Mice

A study at Emory University nicknamed the gene RGS14 the "Homer Simpson gene" because deleting it in mice significantly enhanced memory and learning by unlocking plasticity in the previously inflexible CA2 region of the hippocampus. Mice lacking RGS14 were quicker at navigating mazes and better at recognizing objects, suggesting the gene normally acts as a brake on cognitive performance.

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