Marisa Wexler, MS,  senior science writer—

Marisa holds a Master of Science in cellular and molecular pathology from the University of Pittsburgh, where she studied novel genetic drivers of ovarian cancer. Her areas of expertise include cancer biology, immunology, and genetics, and she has worked as a science writing and communications intern for the Genetics Society of America.

Articles by Marisa Wexler

HDSA 2025: Psychedelic compound eases depression in mice

Treatment with a nonhallucinogenic psychedelic compound may help to ease depression in people with Huntington’s disease, according to experiments done in a mouse model. The research was done by Kaleigh Hanley, a scientist at the University of Central Florida’s College of Medicine. Hanley is one of the recipients of…

HDSA 2025: Support can help combat Huntington’s disease stigma

People affected by Huntington’s disease often experience stigma, but — according to two social workers, and patients themselves — this can be combated by building loving communities and being proactive about sharing experiences and asking for support. At the 40th annual convention of the Huntington’s Disease Society of…

HDSA 2025: Community gathers for 40th annual convention

Today kicks off the 40th annual convention of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA), an event the association says provides an opportunity for the Huntington’s disease community to come together to “learn, share, and build hope for the future.” This year’s convention is taking place in…

Data on medicines for Huntington’s psychiatric symptoms lacking

Mental health problems are common in Huntington’s disease, but there isn’t much data on patients’ use of psychiatric medications, a review study reports. “Although [neuropsychiatric problems] in [Huntington’s disease] are common, hardly any clinical trials have addressed their treatment,” the study’s researchers wrote. “As a result, evidence that…

LETI-101 lowers mutant HTT protein in preclinical models

LETI-101, an experimental gene-editing therapy for Huntington’s disease, showed promising proof-of-concept effects in mouse and cell models by reducing levels of the disease-causing mutant huntingtin (HTT) protein, while preserving HTT’s healthy version. In nonhuman primates, the therapy showed good safety and distribution across brain regions profoundly impacted by Huntington’s. The…

DNA repair genes contribute to Huntington’s, mouse study suggests

Specific genes involved in repairing mismatched DNA contribute to the development of Huntington’s disease by driving fast somatic CAG repeat expansion — a phenomenon in which Huntington’s-causing mutations grow, or expand, during a person’s lifetime, scientists report. Their study, done in a mouse model of Huntington’s, showed that targeting…