Scientists show how tiny, mutated neuron antennae impair brain connectivity

Axons are the long thread-like extensions of neurons that send electrical signals to other brain cells. Thanks to axonal connectivity, our brains and bodies can do all necessary tasks. Even before we're born, we need axons to grow in tracts throughout gray matter and connect properly as our brains develop. Researchers have now found a key reason why connectivity goes awry and leads to rare but debilitating neurodevelopmental conditions.