Neuroscientist Patrik Verstreken of the Flemish Institute for Biotechnology (VIB) demonstrated for the first time that badly functioning mitochondria, which generate energy in cells, can lead to mental disabilities. Scientists knew that faulty energy production in brain cells could cause Parkinson’s disease, but this research shows a clear link with other brain disorders. A better understanding of the mechanisms used by the cell to maintain optimum energy levels could lead to medical applications to prevent or to treat these diseases.