1.   An absence of dendritic spines has also been found in brain autopsies of schizophrenics.

2.   Adding estrogen to these cells in tissue culture doubled the density of the dendritic spines of neurons, where important synapses in the brain are made.

3.   It has also been shown that after excessive brain activity, such as in epileptic seizures, large numbers of dendritic spines disappear.

4.   Other researchers have been making headway in identifying the even smaller structures found within the dendritic spines.

5.   Results showed actin also concentrates in dendritic spines, helping them to move and change shape.

6.   Results showed a sudden bloom of dendritic spines, as if nerve cells had sent out search parties for the missing signals.

7.   Using the latest in laser and video imaging technology, brain experts have seen and recorded dendritic spines sprouting and changing form within fractions of a second.