A group of neurologists reviewed the most frequently watched YouTube videos about movement disorders and found that 66% were identified as showing 'psychogenic' movement disorders. The doctors agreed on diagnoses in 87-100% of all cases, highlighting the need for careful consideration when seeking medical information online.
Human gliomas implanted in mice were found to release excess levels of glutamate, overstimulating neurons and triggering seizures. Sulfasalazine, an anti-inflammatory drug, was shown to reduce seizures by inhibiting glutamate release from the tumor.
In a large nationwide clinical trial, intensive medical treatment reduced strokes and deaths by 70% compared to brain stent placement in high-risk patients. The study found no benefit from stenting, suggesting it may dislodge unstable plaque in arteries.
The NIH Blueprint empowers researchers to develop new treatments for neurological disorders, such as vision loss, neurodegenerative disease, and depression. Seven research teams have received funding to explore promising strategies for creating faster and more effective antidepressants.
Researchers have created a new model of ALS using human cells from autopsied tissue, finding that astrocytes secrete toxic factors that cause nerve cell degeneration. The study suggests that inflammatory responses and SOD1 function contribute to both sporadic and familial ALS.
The study, which compared two types of physical therapy, found that patients who received at-home strength and balance training made significant improvements in walking speed and mobility, with results lasting up to one year. The findings suggest that conventional wisdom about recovery being limited to six months may be incorrect.
Researchers have found that in late-onset Alzheimer's disease, beta-amyloid is produced at a normal rate but not cleared efficiently from the brain. This discovery may lead to improved biomarker measures for early diagnosis and new treatment approaches.
A study funded by NIH shows that participants can force a computer to display one image and discard another using only their thoughts. The research used brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to understand how the brain processes information, particularly attention and decision-making.
Two new Udall Centers will advance Parkinson's disease research, focusing on genetic studies, brain circuit disruption, and novel treatments. The NINDS investment aims to accelerate basic, translational, and clinical research to find a cure for the devastating illness.
Researchers used whole exome sequencing to discover a single gene at the root of several types of childhood brain disorders, including malformations of cortical development. The study found six unique mutations in the WDR62 gene among 30 families, highlighting its crucial role in human cortical brain development.
A recent study has revealed a model for understanding Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), which is linked to the generation of toxic RNA that damages muscle cells. Variations in chromosome 4 play a crucial role in this process, and researchers have identified potential new treatments by silencing the effects of this RNA.
A major study found that patients with Parkinson's disease respond similarly to deep brain stimulation (DBS) at two different brain targets, challenging current beliefs. Motor symptoms such as tremor and stiffness improved equally in both groups.
A new brain implant made from silk has been developed to monitor and control seizures, as well as transmit signals past damaged spinal cord areas. The ultrathin flexible implants can record brain activity more faithfully than thicker devices, with potential applications in epilepsy, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological disorders.
Two studies found that small changes to a protein's chemistry can eliminate signs of Huntington's disease in mice. Researchers identified two amino acids critical for regulating the toxic protein, suggesting potential targets for drug therapy.
A study funded by NIH found that individuals with higher urate levels in their blood and cerebrospinal fluid have a slower rate of disease progression. A clinical trial is underway to examine the safety and benefits of supplemental urate elevation for recently diagnosed patients.
Researchers funded by NIH have found a key factor in the spread of aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). A small designer protein can block the activity of a protein fragment that stimulates GBM cell migration, suggesting a potential new therapy target.
Scientists discovered that neurons and plant root cells may use a similar mechanism to grow, shedding light on the genetics of hereditary spastic paraplegias. The study proposes that defects in the endoplasmic reticulum shape may cause HSP, with potential applications in Arabidopsis research.
Researchers have developed a novel drug discovery tool that uses baker's yeast to rapidly search for drugs to treat Parkinson's disease. The tool identifies cyclic peptides with protective effects on yeast cells and neurons in an animal model of the disease, offering new hope for treatment breakthroughs.
A recent genetic study has confirmed the immune system's role in narcolepsy, revealing that autoimmunity plays a crucial part in the disorder. The study found unique variants of genes HLA-DQB1*0602 and TCRA associated with narcolepsy-cataplexy.
Researchers identified genetic factors affecting autism risk, including genes involved in forming and maintaining brain cell connections. These findings may lead to better diagnostic strategies for children with autism.
A study funded by NIH found that astrocytes, not neurons, contribute to the urge to sleep when wakefulness is prolonged. The release of adenosine from these support cells causes sleep-inducing effects that can be inhibited by caffeine.
Researchers found that mild electrical current to a motor control area of the brain improved motor task performance significantly. The technique has potential for enhancing rehabilitation for individuals with brain injuries.
A study found that mast cells stimulate tumor growth in neurofibromatosis type 1 by recruiting other cell types and blood vessels to the tumor. A drug called Gleevec, already prescribed for cancer, curbs tumor growth in a mouse model of the disease.
Researchers successfully linked a person's brain to individual muscles in a paralyzed limb using neuroprosthetic devices, allowing natural control and movements. The study demonstrates a novel approach to restoring movement through direct artificial connections between the brain and muscles.
A study funded by the NIH has transformed scientists' understanding of Rett syndrome, a genetic disorder causing autistic behavior and disabling symptoms. The research found that the MECP2 gene acts as an activator for thousands of genes, suppressing some but activating most.
A new study found that certain brain injuries, such as damage to the amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex, may reduce the likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in combat-exposed veterans. The findings suggest that drugs or pacemaker-like devices targeting these areas might be effective treatments for PTSD.
Researchers discover paddle, a modular unit in ion channels, enabling nerve cells to fire. The findings hold promise for developing new therapeutic drugs targeting ion channel function., Ion channel proteins control electrical activity in nerve cells, and the study's results may lead to new approaches for treating neurological disorder...
Scientists have discovered a method to track neural progenitor cells in the adult human brain, opening new avenues for diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders. The breakthrough uses magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to detect proteins produced by these cells.
A combination of capsaicin and QX-314 selectively block pain-sensing neurons in rats, blocking pain without impairing movement or other sensations. The treatment has great potential to improve pain treatment during childbirth, dental procedures, and surgery, offering a promising alternative to current nerve blocks.
Two genes influencing MS risk have been conclusively linked to the disease, shedding new light on its causes and potential treatments. The findings may provide hope for at least 350,000 Americans affected by MS.
A new NIH study is tracking the brain and behavioral development of over 500 healthy American children from birth to age 18. The study found that children approach adult levels of performance on many basic cognitive and motor skills by age 11 or 12, but there were no dramatic increases in cognitive growth during adolescence.
The NIH is launching a large-scale clinical trial to explore the potential of creatine as a treatment for Parkinson's disease. The study aims to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life for patients.
Researchers found that a drug called trichostatin A can increase SMN2 gene activity, improving symptoms and extending survival in SMA mice. Treatment started after symptoms appeared led to a 19% longer lifespan on average.
A recent NIH study found that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is more sensitive than computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing acute ischemic stroke, the most common form of stroke. This can lead to better diagnosis and treatment for patients, with potential benefits including reduced misdiagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
A two-week rehabilitation program using constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) significantly improved function of the affected arm in stroke survivors. CIMT involves training the weakened hand and arm through repetitive exercises while restraining the unaffected hand and arm, forcing patients to use their affected limbs.
A specific gene variant, GCH1, affects both acute and chronic pain sensitivity in humans. The protective version of the gene reduces the risk of developing chronic post-surgical pain.
The study provides valuable insights into the genetic causes of Parkinson's disease and offers a starting point for further research. Researchers have made the data publicly available, creating a resource that can be used by other scientists to accelerate progress in the field.
Researchers discovered a dopamine drug that stimulates new neuron development and restores function in an animal model of Parkinson's disease. The treatment, 7-OH-DPAT, led to significant improvements in motor functions and neuronal connections.
Scientists successfully transplanted motor neurons into paralyzed rats, restoring function and improving hind limb grip strength. The study demonstrates the potential for treating spinal cord injuries and diseases like ALS.
A study analyzing NINDS-supported clinical trials found a 4600% return on investment and estimated benefits of over $50 billion. The studies improved health outcomes and saved lives, with some trials showing benefits of over $6 billion.
A study conducted by the NIH and NINDS evaluated patients treated with natalizumab for relapsing-remitting MS and found no new cases of PML. However, the researchers caution that the long-term risk associated with natalizumab treatment is unknown.
Researchers found KCNC3 gene mutations in two families, one with adult-onset ataxia and the other with childhood-onset ataxia and mild mental retardation. These findings suggest that potassium channel abnormalities may contribute to a wide variety of neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have discovered that Alzheimer's disease is caused by abnormal cell division in neurons, which starts months before amyloid plaques form. The study suggests that another cellular problem triggers the disease process after abnormal cell cycling begins.
A recent NIH study found a strong association between progressive aphasia syndrome and a specific prion gene variant, suggesting that the disease may be linked to genetic variations in the prion protein. The findings have significant implications for understanding the causes of this rare neurological disorder.
Researchers identified EGFRvIII and PTEN proteins as key factors in determining tumor response to EGFR inhibitors. These findings suggest that adjusting treatment based on genetic activity could significantly prolong life for glioblastoma patients and prevent unnecessary treatments.
Researchers found that a combination of precursor cells and gene therapy led to significant improvements in functional recovery from spinal cord injury. The treatment promoted myelination, resulting in improved mobility and electrical activity in the affected area.
A new study found that aspirin is as effective as warfarin in treating blocked brain arteries but has a significantly lower risk of major hemorrhage and death. The study, which involved over 500 patients, suggests that aspirin could be a safer alternative to warfarin for those with intracranial stenosis.
A recent study found that combining ultrasound with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) therapy significantly improves outcomes for patients suffering from ischemic strokes. The results show a 49% increase in dramatic clinical improvement and significant blockage reduction compared to traditional t-PA treatment alone.
A robotic microscope system allowed researchers to track changes in individual neurons over time, revealing that formation of inclusion bodies prolongs neuron survival. Neurons with larger gene mutations had a higher cell death rate, but the overall death rate remained constant.
A small trial found that daclizumab add-on therapy reduced the severity and number of brain lesions in patients with relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. The treatment, which blocks the interleukin-2 receptor on immune cells, showed unexpected clinical benefits in a small group of patients.