Researchers discovered that a small population of neurons in the brain's reward centre can respond with both yes and no, regulating reward behaviour. Shutting down one language increases mice's predilection for cocaine, while humans with mutation of a key gene are 10 times more vulnerable to severe addiction
A new study by Naguib Mechawar's team found that networks of astrocytes are altered specifically in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. The research also discovered unique properties of astrocytes in subcortical brain regions, which may contribute to depression and suicide.
Researchers found that integration of new neurons in the adult brain is compromised in depressed patients, particularly in the olfactory bulb. This discovery provides an important step towards understanding the mechanisms of depression.
A new study by Douglas Mental Health University Institute researchers suggests that the shape of the hippocampus, not its size, is linked to improved memory function. The research, published in Human Brain Mapping, found that individuals with a broader hippocampus tend to perform better on memory tests than those with a smaller one.
A study led by Dr. Howard Steiger found that individuals with anorexia nervosa exhibit disorder-relevant alterations in DNA methylation, affecting emotional reactions, physiological functions, and behaviors. Early treatment is crucial to prevent chronicity of the illness.
Researchers at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute found that glucocorticoid tablets can synchronize peripheral biological clocks in white blood cells, improving synchronization of the body's internal clocks. This breakthrough could lead to innovative therapies for travelers, night-shift workers, and those with sleep disorders.
A study by researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Mental Health University Institute found that a good night's sleep is linked to better performance in math and languages, subjects critical for later learning and academic success. Higher sleep efficiency was associated with higher grades in these subjects.
A new study found that most youth suicide victims had underlying mental health problems, highlighting the need for increased public awareness and coordination of services. The research identified significant deficits in training, service coordination, and continuity of care among professionals.
Researchers detected a distinctive DNA signature in children born after the massive Quebec ice storm, linked to maternal hardship and stress. The study found that objective stress exposure, not emotional distress, caused long-lasting changes in the epigenome of their babies.
Researchers found that the hippocampus, a brain region essential for memory, has a bidirectional flow of activity, rather than just unidirectional. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding neural circuitry and dynamic mechanisms controlling memory.
A genetic variant in the HMG CoA reductase gene has been identified as a significant protector against common Alzheimer's disease, delaying its onset by up to 4 years. This breakthrough discovery opens up new possibilities for treatment and pharmaceutical interventions.
The Douglas Mental Health University Institute is leading a major Canada-wide research network to improve youth mental health services. The five-year, $25M ACCESS Canada project aims to develop and implement strategies for quick access to flexible mental health services.
A new study from Project Ice Storm found that prenatal maternal stress predicts asthma-like symptoms and autistic-like traits in 6 1/2 year-old children. The greater the mothers' objective hardship and subjective distress, the more severe their children's autistic-like traits at 6½ years of age.
Researchers at Douglas Mental Health University Institute have discovered that dopamine is present in the hippocampus and plays a key role in this region. This finding opens up new avenues for understanding psychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches to improve symptoms.
Researchers have identified a key 'teenage gene' that plays a role in mental health vulnerability, particularly during adolescence. The DCC gene's dysfunction has been linked to behavioral consequences that persist into adulthood.
Research by Véronique Bohbot reveals a direct link between stimulus-response learning and increased substance abuse, particularly smoking, alcohol and cannabis use. A developed striatum is associated with this behavior.
Researchers have identified the precise causal link between neuronal activity in the lateral hypothalamus and REM sleep. Using optogenetics, they were able to induce and manipulate REM sleep in mice, providing a breakthrough in understanding sleep mechanisms and potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) have altered body rhythms of the hormone melatonin, which may explain sleep disruptions. The study found decreased melatonin levels during night-time hours and symptomatic luteal phase, highlighting potential targets for treatment.
Researchers at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute have identified a new genetic process that could lead to novel treatments for neurodevelopmental disorders. Genetic mutations affecting brain development can occur in genes of unknown function, suggesting a previously overlooked pathway in brain development.
Researchers at Douglas Mental Health University Institute are launching the world's first prevention study on Alzheimer's disease. They will recruit 250 healthy adults aged 60 or over with a family history of the condition and observe their biomarkers for ten years to find preventative agents.
A new international study links city living to increased stress responses in the amygdala and activity in the cingulate cortex. The findings suggest that different brain regions respond to urban environment at various stages of life.
A new study reveals that clock genes function in multiple areas of the human brain, affecting sleep patterns and cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. The findings have significant implications for understanding and treating sleep disturbances associated with the disease.
Research published in Developmental Psychobiology and Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience found that maternal care impacts stress response in adult offspring's brains. High-quality maternal milk and contact reduce vulnerability to stress, while low levels may lead to lower self-esteem.