José Lopes, PhD, managing science editor —

A specific variant in the DDC gene is associated with higher dopamine excretion and production in the kidney, as well as altered function of aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), according to a study. The study, “A new common functional coding variant at the DDC gene change…

A mouse model of aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) deficiency, carrying a frequent mutation in patients with the condition, has been developed for the first time, according to researchers. Findings from this new model indicate that low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin are associated with characteristic symptoms. The study, “…