I wonder if this might explain the link between Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and neurodivergence. People with EDS, like myself, are 7 times as likely to be autistic and 5 times as likely to have ADHD -- also like myself. (There are other associations. These are just the two I know by memory.)

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260304184233.htm

#EhlersDanlos
#EDS
#autism
#ADHD
#AuDHD
#ActuallyAutistic

Scientists discover a hidden force that helps wire the brain

Growing neurons rely on chemical cues to find their targets, but new research shows that the brain’s physical properties help shape those signals. Scientists discovered that tissue stiffness can trigger the production of guidance molecules through a force-sensing protein called Piezo1. This protein not only detects mechanical forces but also helps maintain the structure of brain tissue. The discovery reveals a powerful link between the brain’s physical environment and how its wiring is built.

ScienceDaily
"Study Reveals Tissue Stiffness Controls Key Brain Signals"
@hosford42 you mean our brains are stiffer than others'?
@lizzard Probably the exact opposite. Differences in collagen are what make us bendy and stretchy. Since collagen is present in basically every part of the body, including the brain, it stands to reason that our brain tissue is also less rigid.

@hosford42 ah, thanks for the correction, I just did a quick read and misunderstood.

It fit my mental stereotype better, rigid thinking = rigid tissue...

@hosford42 @lizzard interesting! I knew about the bendier joints (hyperextended elbows and knees) and a higher likelihood of being LGBTQ as well)