Researchers used brain imaging and fossil evidence to confirm earlier studies on somatotopic maps in humans and monkeys. Early hominids evolved dexterous fingers when still quadrupeds, while bipedal locomotion led to a separate adaptation of the big toe for balance control.
Researchers suggest targeting the glutamatergic system as a viable target for antidepressant drug development, with potential to rapidly alleviate symptoms of depression. A phase II trial demonstrated a surprisingly rapid antidepressant effect in humans, and further studies indicate extended efficacy.
A study found that binge drinking slows bone healing by impairing the formation of hard bony tissue and recruiting stem cells to the injury site. Alcohol also increases oxidative stress, which can lead to weaker bones.
A massive DNA study has uncovered 157 genetic changes that alter cholesterol and blood fat levels, potentially leading to new medications. Triglycerides play a larger role in heart disease risk than previously thought, and the research provides strong foundation for further investigation.
Researchers at The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research identified the cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (CIRP) as a key player in triggering inflammation during hemorrhagic shock and sepsis. Blocking CIRP activity may improve patient survival rates, according to preclinical studies.
Researchers have discovered vast channels beneath an Antarctic ice shelf, stretching hundreds of kilometers. The channels' formation is linked to meltwater flowing under the grounded ice sheet, shedding light on how ice responds to environmental changes.
Researchers found that the extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathway is activated in response to chronic drug use and plays a key role in long-lasting behavioral adaptations. ERK activation can be prevented by pharmacological blockade, suggesting a potential target for treating addiction.
Researchers have identified six new disease-related genes for Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects moisture-producing glands. The findings provide a first step towards understanding how genetic variants alter immune system functions and may lead to the development of therapeutics.
A study of identical twins with significant weight differences found that in half of the pairs, the obese twin had a poorer blood fat profile and increased risk of diabetes. In contrast, the other half showed no difference in metabolic health between the two twins, shedding light on the 'metabolically healthy obesity' phenomenon.
Researchers found that epigenetic changes in the brain are associated with Alzheimer's disease, offering potential for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Epigenetic markers such as DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation increased with age, correlating with AD pathology.
Researchers discovered that the extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK) pathway is activated in specific brain areas after exposure to addictive drugs. The study suggests that ERK activation is necessary for long-term synaptic plasticity and may be a suitable target for therapeutic interventions.
A new study suggests that genetically modified Bt sweet corn can reduce the need for traditional insecticides, resulting in increased marketability and profitability for farmers. The research found that Bt sweet corn outperformed non-Bt varieties in controlling pest infestations, even with conventional insecticide applications.
Researchers at Jülich's Institute of Energy and Climate Research have successfully recreated the natural conditions for isoprene degradation, demonstrating efficient hydroxyl radical regeneration. This process takes place faster than previously thought and produces fewer climate-damaging ozone molecules.
Scientists have developed a new method to visualize gene activity in single cells, revealing strong variability in gene expression and spatial organization between cells. The method allows for the parallel measurement of gene activity and transcript molecules in thousands of single cells, providing novel insights into cell behavior.
Research found that pesticides can subtly impact individual bees, leading to colony failure. The study provides an important breakthrough in understanding the causes of declining bee populations and offers insights for policymakers.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory identified a class of inhibitory neurons called VIP interneurons, which specifically suppress activation of other inhibitory neurons. These VIP neurons modulate the balance between excitation and inhibition in the cerebral cortex.