Joana Carvalho, PhD, managing science editor —

Joana holds a bachelor’s in biology, a Master of Science in evolutionary and developmental biology, and a PhD in biomedical sciences from Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal. Her work has been focused on the impact of non-canonical Wnt signaling in the collective behavior of endothelial cells — those that make up the lining of blood vessels — found in the umbilical cord of newborns. In addition to several research fellowships, she was awarded two Erasmus scholarships to conduct part of her studies in France.

Articles by Joana Carvalho

Study Suggests Critical Time Window to Treat Rett Syndrome

Using several models of Rett syndrome, scientists have discovered a direct, time-dependent relationship between MeCP2 — the protein altered or with lowered levels in most cases of this disorder — and GABAA receptors, which are important for normal communication between nerve cells. The findings suggest that treating Rett…

‘Uptime’ Physical Activities Aid Life Quality and Walking Abilities in Rett Patients, Study Finds

“Uptime” activities, such as standing and walking, that promote physical activity and work against a sedentary lifestyle can improve walking capacity and life quality in girls and women with Rett syndrome, a study reports. The study, “Feasibility and Effectiveness of an Individualized 12-Week “Uptime” Participation (U-PART) Intervention in Girls…

Chemical Modifications That Accelerate KCC2 Activity May Ease Symptoms of Rett Syndrome, Mouse Study Indicates

Chemical modifications in the protein KCC2 that accelerate its activity during brain development may alleviate some of the cognitive and behavioral symptoms of several neurodevelopmental disorders, including Rett syndrome, a mouse study has found. The study, “Developmental Regulation of KCC2 Phosphorylation Has Long-Term Impacts on Cognitive Function,”…

Meta-Analysis of Genetic Studies Essential to Discover New Therapeutic Targets for Rett Syndrome, Reviewers Contend

Implementation of meta-analysis — a statistical approach that combines information from different studies — using data from studies on the protein and genetic landscape of Rett syndrome is essential to discover new therapeutic targets for this disease, according to a recent review. The study, “Genome-wide transcriptomic and proteomic…