The cerebellum, known for its motor coordination role, also plays a crucial role in regulating reward circuitry and social behavior. Researchers found a direct neural connection between the cerebellum and the ventral tegmental area (VTA), leading to increased activation and preference for rewards.
A new report provides guidance on how hospitals can implement universal suicide risk screening of youth in medical settings, using a 3-tiered clinical pathway system. The ASQ tool is used as the first screen, followed by a brief safety assessment and a comprehensive evaluation if necessary.
The NIH BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network has released its first data set, featuring the molecular identities of over 1.3 million mouse brain cells and anatomical data from 300 brains. This comprehensive characterization aims to integrate molecular, anatomical, and functional data on cell types in mice, humans, and non-human primates.
Researchers have adapted Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) to target early childhood depression, showing promising results for 3-6 year olds. The PCIT-ED intervention improved children's emotional regulation skills and reduced symptoms of depression.
A recent NIH study discovered that bigger human brains prioritize thinking areas at a cost to emotional, sensory, and motor functions. The larger the brain, the more its additional area is accounted for by growth in thinking areas of the cortex, leading to higher energy consumption.
A recent study found that suicide rates among US youth vary significantly by race, with black children aged 5-12 experiencing a nearly two-fold higher risk of suicide compared to white children of the same age group. The researchers highlight the need for further research into contributing factors and targeted interventions.
Researchers have deciphered the molecular structure of an antipsychotic docked in its key receptor, revealing a deep pocket that could be targeted to design more selective drugs with fewer side effects. This discovery may hold secrets to designing better treatments for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Researchers have discovered brain circuitry essential for alertness and brain states in zebra fish and mice, suggesting the human brain is likely similarly wired. The study used a molecular method to identify six suspect circuits composed of distinct populations of neurons that modulate neuronal activity.
The NIH BRAIN Initiative has launched a major effort to discover and catalog the brain's diverse cell types. The BICCN will generate knowledge that is prerequisite to solving the mysteries of brain disorders such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and autism spectrum disorder.
A NIH study found three interventions in emergency departments save lives and are cost-effective relative to usual care. Postcards, telephone outreach, and cognitive behavioral therapy reduce patients' suicide risk by 30-50% and are cost-effective options.
A breakthrough method has yielded a trove of neuronal subtypes and gene regulators in the brain, using molecular profiling to detect epigenetic regulation. This discovery opens the door to potentially discovering changes linked to brain disorders and compiling the brain's 'parts list'.
Researchers found that genetic variations from Neanderthals shape modern human brain structures, particularly those involved in tool use and visualization. This may lead to trade-offs with social brain function, potentially contributing to deficits seen in these disorders.
Researchers encoded and played back a primitive movie in DNA using CRISPR technology, enabling the potential to record changing internal states of neurons. The 'molecular recorder' could one day allow for non-intrusive tracking of events over time, revolutionizing brain development studies.
Studies in mice funded by NIH reveal thalamus sustains ability to distinguish categories and hold thoughts in mind. The structure boosts synchronous activity of PFC neurons to sustain memory of category, improving working memory performance.
A study by NIH-funded researchers found that policies restricting pharmaceutical promotion to physicians resulted in fewer prescribed promoted drugs and more non-promoted drugs in the same drug classes. The analysis encompassed over 16 million prescriptions, showing a modest but significant decline in the use of promoted drugs.
Researchers created 3D brain organoids that replicate human forebrain circuitry, revealing the role of cell migration in autism. They successfully corrected defective neuron migration using a drug, paving the way for personalized treatments.
Research reveals that fluctuations in estrogen can trigger atypical functioning in a key brain memory circuit in women with a common version of the gene, NIMH scientists have discovered. This finding may help explain individual differences in menstrual cycle and reproductive-related mental disorders linked to fluctuations in the hormone.
A complex of genes regulating epigenetic mechanisms is linked to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a condition affecting 2-5% of women of reproductive age. Dysregulated expression of these genes suggests abnormal cellular response to sex hormones, which may hold hope for improved treatment.
Researchers have synthesized a molecule called PZM21 that targets brain pain systems without triggering respiratory impairment or constipation like morphine. The new agent holds promise as both a clinical treatment and a tool for exploring the workings of brain pain systems.
Scientists discovered 15 genome sites linked to depression in European ancestry, regulating gene expression and new neuron birth. Using crowd-sourced data, they detected weak genetic signals associated with depression, supporting a novel approach to complement traditional methods.
A recent study has mapped 180 distinct areas in the human brain's outer mantle, or cortex, more than twice the number previously known. The researchers developed software that automatically detects the unique 'fingerprint' of each area in individual brain scans, with a nearly 97% detection rate.
Researchers found that a chemical byproduct of ketamine metabolism is responsible for its rapid antidepressant action, unlike the anesthetic and dissociative effects. This discovery holds promise for developing more robust and safer treatments for depression.
Researchers discovered a key brain circuit responsible for using past experiences to guide decision-making in rats. The circuit involves coordinated activity between the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex during awake mental replay of past experiences.
A new analysis shows that team-based coordinated specialty care (CSC) is more cost-effective than typical community care for young people with first episode psychosis. CSC produces better clinical and quality of life outcomes, making it a better value despite modestly higher costs.
Researchers discovered that gene versions of C4 trigger runaway synaptic pruning during adolescence, leading to fewer brain connections and higher risk of developing schizophrenia. This finding offers a new potential target for interventions and treatments.
A new study finds that biomarkers outperform symptoms in identifying distinct psychosis subgroups, suggesting a more precise diagnosis may lead to improved treatments. The research used 1,872 participants and identified three biotypes, each with unique patterns of brain function and structure.
Researchers found that antipsychotic prescriptions for seniors increased with age after 65, with nearly half of those over 80 using the drugs in excess of 120 days. The study highlights concerns about safety and calls for alternative treatments.
A team-based, coordinated specialty care approach produces better clinical and functional outcomes than typical community care for people with first episode psychosis. Treatment is most effective when provided soon after psychotic symptoms begin.
Two studies reveal that the human brain's unique support system and connectivity are associated with higher levels of education, income, and life satisfaction. The research adds to our understanding of the human brain's parts list and enhances scientists' ability to model uniquely human disorders.
A computerized attention-control training program significantly reduced combat veterans' preoccupation with - or avoidance of -- threat and attendant PTSD symptoms. This approach balances moment-to-moment fluctuations in attention bias from threat vigilance to threat avoidance, correlating with the severity of PTSD symptoms.
The NIH is supporting a multi-year project to develop and improve clinical research tools for studying social impairment in children with autism. The project aims to create reliable tools for assessing potential treatments, which will aid in precision medicine approaches.
A recent NIH-funded study found that approximately 1.5% of boys aged 10-18 received an antipsychotic prescription in 2010, with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) being the most common diagnosis among youth ages 1-18. The study also highlighted a significant increase in antipsychotic use with age, beginning at 0.11% for ch...
Researchers developed a predictive model using VHA health system data to identify small groups of individuals with very high predicted suicide risk. The study found that the model was more sensitive than clinical flagging and could help tailor suicide prevention efforts to those at highest risk.
Researchers have developed mini cultured 3-D structures that grow and function like the outer mantle of the brain, allowing for modeling and understanding of mental illnesses. The new 'human cortical spheroids' buzz with neuronal network activity, providing a potential breakthrough in personalized medicine.
Researchers have identified two brain circuits that play a crucial role in encoding positive and negative learned associations in mice. The study found that one circuit promotes reward-driven behaviors, while the other drives avoidance behavior.
A recent NIH-funded study found that HIV can genetically evolve and replicate in the brain within four months of infection, with signs of inflammation or viral replication present in up to 30% of infected patients. The study suggests that early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potential brain damage.
A recent study suggests that brain circuitry for fear retrieval shifts over time, potentially worsening symptoms of anxiety disorders. The discovery could change scientists' view of post-traumatic stress disorder and inform the development of new treatments.
A National Institutes of Health-funded study found that benzodiazepine prescribing increases steadily with age, especially among older women. The study suggests that prescriptions for benzodiazepines exceed what research suggests is appropriate and safe, particularly in this age group.
Almost 40% of people with first-episode psychosis in community clinics may benefit from medication treatment changes. Current prescribing practices highlight the need for more education on first-episode specific medication practices at community facilities.
A study of over 40,000 soldiers found a significantly elevated suicide rate among those hospitalized for psychiatric disorders, with the highest-risk group accounting for 52.9% of post-hospital suicides.
In a National Institutes of Health trial, ketamine restored loss of interest in pleasurable activities within 40 minutes, with the effect lasting up to 14 days. Brain scans showed boosted activity in areas linked to motivation and reward-seeking behavior, independent of other antidepressant effects.
Patients with first episode psychosis face elevated risks of heart disease and metabolic issues due to mental illness, unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, and antipsychotic medications. A team-based healthcare approach is necessary to address these needs and improve overall health.
A recent study has found that a rare genetic mutation in the DISC1 gene can corrupt neural connections, leading to disruptions in brain circuitry. The research, published in Nature, used induced pluripotent stem cells to model the effects of the mutation on human neurons.
The NIH Follow that Cell Challenge seeks tools to monitor a cell's behavior and function over time, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and improved therapies for diseases. The challenge aims to generate creative ideas and methods for following a single cell's behavior, using multiple integrated measures.
Researchers have discovered 108 genetic loci associated with schizophrenia, a significant increase from the 30 previously reported. The study suggests that these genetic variations may exert their effects by turning genes on or off rather than coding for proteins.
Researchers funded by NIH found that common gene variants account for most genetic risk for autism, outweighing other factors. The study used a large Swedish sample and new statistical methods to detect common genetic variation associated with risk.
Scientists have confirmed that strengthened connections between neurons, known as long-term potentiation (LTP), underlie memory formation. The study used optogenetics to strengthen and weaken these connections in genetically engineered rats, successfully forming, removing, and reactivating a memory.
Scientists have developed a new tool for controlling brain circuit activity using light pulses, allowing for precise control over neuron function. The breakthrough, funded by the NIH, could lead to future therapeutic applications in managing pain and understanding mental illnesses.
Researchers found that boosting runaway neuronal activity triggers a compensatory self-stabilizing response, restoring balance and reversing depression-like behaviors. This 'homeostatic resilience' mechanism may lead to new antidepressant strategies, targeting the brain's reward circuit.
Research suggests that prenatal origin of autism is related to disorganized cortical patches in the developing brain. The study found a 91% absence of cellular markers for several cortical layers in autistic case samples.