Argentine Researchers Unlock Plant Regeneration Mechanisms Environmental Factors Linked to Neurodevelopmental Conditions

Argentine researchers at the CONICET's Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario, led by Javier Palatnik, have identified a molecular mechanism that could enhance plant regeneration, particularly after genetic modification. Published in *Nature Plants*, the study details how growth-regulating factors (GRFs) and microRNA miR396 control root regeneration in *Arabidopsis thaliana*. This discovery has led to patents for increasing plant biomass and drought resistance. Separately, a Karolinska Institutet thesis by Aleksandra Kanina explores environmental influences on neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs) like autism and ADHD. The research indicates that adverse life events and psychosocial adversity are linked to increased likelihood of autism and ADHD, but familial factors play a significant role. Neonatal jaundice also showed a connection to autism, influenced by perinatal factors. Kanina emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to address the needs of autistic individuals, especially pregnant women.