NYU Langone researchers have identified the type of inhibitory interneurons responsible for oxytocin's effects on brain function. The study found that oxytocin increases the reliability of stimulated impulses, improving brain function and potentially relevant to autism-spectrum disorder.
Scientists develop a new approach to eliminate mutated DNA in mitochondria using TALEN technology inspired by plant-infecting bacteria. The method shows promise for treating mitochondrial diseases, including Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, and could lead to effective treatments for various eye diseases.
Researchers find that small, disordered crystals in plastic materials improve charge mobility, enabling faster electron movement and higher performance. This discovery could lead to the development of low-cost, commercially available plastic solar cells.
A new study from MIT suggests that dopamine signaling plays a crucial role in maintaining focus on long-term goals. The research reveals that the level of dopamine increases steadily throughout each trial, peaking as the animal approaches its goal, reflecting its distance from the reward.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that listeners' brain reactions differ depending on the speaker's perceived ability to act upon their words. Researchers used EEG recordings to compare reactions to statements made by influential and non-influential speakers, revealing a significant impact of social status on neural responses.
A research team identified a new type of cell in the brain that helps people navigate unfamiliar environments through path integration. Grid cells allow the brain to keep track of navigational cues and maintain a sense of location.
A global meta-analysis reveals that climate change is driving changes in marine species' breeding, feeding, and migration timing, as well as shifting their geographic distribution toward the poles. The study found that warming oceans are causing marine species to move at an average of 72 kilometers per decade.
A rare genetic deletion of the TOP3B gene has been identified as a common biological pathway for both schizophrenia and a learning disorder associated with autism, increasing susceptibility by two-fold. The study uncovers an important biological process underlying these brain disorders, potentially leading to new drug targets.
A new global study reveals widespread systemic shifts in marine species distribution and phenology, comparable to those observed on land. The research found that 81% of changes were consistent with climate change, with some species shifting up to 11 days earlier in spring.
EPFL researchers dismantled a bacterial nano-machine that kills host cells by piercing membranes. The discovery opens new therapeutic perspectives, including coating catheters with substitute peptides to prevent infection.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a way to target the immune system to shrink or eliminate tumors in mice without causing autoimmune problems. The mechanism focuses on regulatory T cells and proteins semaphorin-4a (Sema4a) and neuropilin-1 (Nrp1).
Scientists have developed a new material that can strengthen itself in response to stress, similar to how muscles build strength through exercise. The material, inspired by weightlifting and Silly Putty, can transform from a liquid to a solid state, becoming stronger with each cycle of stress.
The researchers determined the structure of NatA, a protein complex modifying nearly 85% of human proteins, and found it essential for cancer cell proliferation. The team believes their findings will allow them to create an inhibitor that can knock out NatA, potentially curbing cancer growth.
Researchers have developed substrate-selective COX-2 inhibitors that relieve anxiety behaviors in mice by activating natural endocannabinoids without gastrointestinal side effects. The findings suggest a new approach to treating mood and anxiety disorders, potentially paving the way for clinical trials and new treatments.
Researchers found that practice reduces metabolic activity in primary motor cortex for internally generated movements, but not visually guided tasks. The study suggests the motor cortex is plastic and can store motor skills.