Brain Damage
Articles tagged with Brain Damage
TBI survivors turn to psychedelics for symptom relief
A new study found that nearly 1,200 TBI respondents used psychedelics to treat or manage physical health conditions, with 208 participants using them to manage brain injury-related symptoms. Researchers reported a 90% self-reported symptom improvement rate.
Having more kids associated with reduced risk of stroke and brain damage, research co-led by UT Health San Antonio shows
A new study co-led by UT Health San Antonio found that having three or more live births is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and brain damage in women. The research suggests that reproductive factors, such as the number of live births, may be an important predictive factor in assessing stroke risk in women.
MUSC-led study challenges widespread belief about fish oil’s effects on brain
Researchers found that fish oil supplements may actually impair brain healing after injury, contrary to previous assumptions. The study suggests a specific omega-3 fatty acid in fish oil, EPA, can lead to weaker vascular repair and impaired recovery.
Trust your gut to heal your brain
Researchers at Houston Methodist found that short-term antibiotic treatment significantly reduced neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration following traumatic brain injury by altering the gut microbiome. Beneficial bacteria Parasutterella excrementihominis and Lactobacillus johnsonii drove cell repair, while reducing harmful gut bacteria.
Computer exercises improve the brain’s pathways after traumatic brain injury
Researchers found that computerized cognitive games improved neuroplasticity in adults with chronic traumatic brain injuries, leading to better cognitive performance. The study revealed changes in white matter associated with improved processing speed, attention, and working memory.
Opening a new window on the brainstem, AI algorithm enables tracking of its vital white matter pathways
A new software tool developed by MIT researchers can reliably and finely resolve eight distinct nerve bundles in live diffusion MRI scans, shedding light on neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The BrainStem Bundle Tool (BSBT) reveals distinct patterns of structural changes in patients with these conditions.
Clinical relevance of brain functional connectome uniqueness in major depressive disorder
A new study highlights the clinical relevance of brain functional connectome uniqueness in identifying biomarkers for major depressive disorder. Researchers found that patients with MDD displayed reduced FC uniqueness, especially in frontoparietal and sensorimotor networks.
New predictive model to identify complications in the first 2 days following mild or moderate traumatic brain injury
A clinical prediction model called the Goliat score can estimate the risk of acute complications in patients with minor and moderate traumatic brain injuries. The model, developed by researchers at UOC and IRBLleida, uses easily accessible variables to predict neurological or cardiorespiratory complications and mortality within 48 hours.
For people with traumatic brain injury and their caregivers, recovery of basic communication is an “acceptable” outcome
A study by Mass General Brigham found that individuals with traumatic brain injury and their caregivers consider recovery of basic communication an 'acceptable' outcome, challenging traditional assumptions about what constitutes a 'favorable' recovery. The study highlights the need for person-centered approaches to TBI outcome research.
Stroke survivors miss critical treatment, face greater disability due to systemic transfer delays
A new study suggests that gaps in the nation's stroke transfer system reduce survivors' chances of receiving critical treatment and increase disability. Patients with longer delays in hospital transfer experienced worse disability after their stroke, highlighting missed opportunities for many stroke patients.
Turning MRI into a quantitative microscope to detect white matter injury
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland and New York University establishes a direct link between axonal microgeometry and diffusion MRI signals. The discovery enables the detection, monitoring, and assessment of treatment response using dMRI in patients with various neurological disorders.
Brain injuries linked with potential risk of suicide, new study finds
A new UK-based study found that adults who experience a head injury face a substantially higher risk of attempting suicide compared to those without such injuries. The 20-year population-based matched cohort study analyzed data from over 1.8 million adults and found that people with head injuries were 21% more likely to attempt suicide.
Blood test reveals prognosis after cardiac arrest
A new blood biomarker, neurofilament light (NFL), has been shown to accurately predict the extent of brain damage after a cardiac arrest. This breakthrough discovery may transform care for patients in intensive care units, allowing for more informed decisions about their treatment.
Pitt and UPMC study finds epigenetic signature of pediatric traumatic brain injury, paves way for precision recovery tools
Researchers at Pitt and UPMC Children's Hospital discovered a biomarker of complicated pediatric traumatic brain injury, which may serve as dynamic indicators of post-injury recovery. The study found that children with TBI had a different epigenetic profile compared to those with orthopaedic injuries.
New guideline standardizes outpatient care for adults recovering from traumatic brain injury
The new guideline provides evidence-based recommendations on 11 high-priority topics to guide outpatient care for adults with TBI in the first six months after injury. It addresses the need for standardized guidance and considers specific factors such as age, intimate partner violence, athletic background, and military service.
UVA, military researchers seek better ways to identify, treat blast-related brain injuries
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System are exploring the role of the neurovascular unit in maintaining healthy brain function and how damage can cause chronic health conditions. The studies aim to identify new biomarkers for blast-related brain injury and develop strategies for prevention and treatment.
Study reveals long-term associations of strangulation-related brain injury from intimate partner violence
A federally funded study by Mass General Brigham investigators found that self-reported vision problems and traumatic stress are experienced years after strangulation in women who have experienced intimate partner violence. The study identified three major subgroups: strangulation alone, altered consciousness, and full loss of consciou...
Potential treatment could prevent brain damage in premature babies
Researchers developed a first-of-its-kind prenatal brain model to study cerebral hemorrhages on stem cells in preterm birth. An antidote reduced brain damage, and the study identified how neural stem cells are damaged by elevated interleukin-1 levels.
Distinct brain features in football players may tell who is at risk of long-term traumatic disease
Researchers found distinct brain features in football players, including shallower left superior frontal sulci and wider left occipitotemporal sulci, which may indicate increased risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The study's findings could lead to the development of early detection tests and therapies.
Mount Sinai study finds chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) rare among individuals with isolated brain injuries
Researchers at Mount Sinai found chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) rare among individuals with isolated brain injuries. The study, published in the Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology, analyzed postmortem brain tissue from 47 donors and revealed that CTE is more common in those with extensive repetitive head impacts.
How multiple sclerosis harms a brain long before symptoms appear
Scientists analyzed thousands of proteins in blood samples to understand when multiple sclerosis attacks the myelin sheath and nerve fibers. Researchers identified a protein called IL-3, which plays a key role in this early phase of damage.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of hypothermia
Researchers discovered that triggering a reversible, hibernation-like hypothermic state in male mice improved motor performance and preserved neural health following brain injury. The study found less neuroinflammation and improved neuron survival in the injured brain area.
30 years of post-traumatic epilepsy research: Where do we stand?
Researchers have made significant strides in understanding post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE), but a therapy to prevent its development remains elusive. Studies identify key barriers, including collaboration, funding, and standardization, and propose eight recommendations to advance PTE research. Potential therapies include disease modifica...
UVA to test if MRI can reveal undetected brain injuries in soldiers
Researchers at UVA Health System are testing a cutting-edge MRI scanner to identify brain scarring caused by blast exposures in soldiers. If successful, the technology could lead to a new imaging test to diagnose brain changes caused by repeated blasts.
Neural navigation: FAU engineers, sensing institute map brain’s blood flow
Researchers from FAU and the Sensing Institute created a detailed computer model of the mouse brain's vasculature, simulating how brain blood vessels respond to hemodynamics and vasodynamics. The model shows that transitional vessels play a critical role in regulating flow and protecting the brain during increased activity.
Adaptive spine board could revolutionize ER transport
Researchers at UTA and UT Southwestern Medical School developed an adaptive spine board overlay that redistributes pressure more effectively than traditional evacuation surfaces. The device features sensor-driven pressure modulation and autonomously adjusts air-cell pressure to maintain optimal distribution for each patient.
Caution required when heading soccer balls
A new study from the University of Sydney found that non-concussive heading of a soccer ball alters the brain, causing subtle changes in brain structure and function. The researchers identified altered chemistry in a region involved in motor control and decreased electrical conductivity across several areas.
Tool for protecting soldiers’ brain health earns $3.2 million grant
A team of researchers has received a $3.2 million grant to upgrade the Generalized Blast Exposure Value (GBEV) tool, which assigns a numerical score to service members' blast exposure history to assess potential health outcomes.
Focal brain damage leaves people more open to being influenced by impulsive others
A new study found that damage to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) makes people more likely to be influenced by other people's impulsive decisions. The researchers also discovered that this type of brain damage is linked to increased impulsivity, even before being influenced by someone else.
Updated equestrian helmet ratings system adds racing and high-speed events
The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab has released an updated set of equestrian ratings that considers impact scenarios with horizontal velocity, typically occurring in racing and cross-country events. The new ratings aim to inform consumer decisions about helmet purchasing by reflecting concussion risk associated with each model.
Neurodegenerative disease ALS: Cellular repair system could prevent protein aggregation
A team of researchers from Goethe University and Kiel University has discovered a way to prevent the formation of harmful protein aggregates in cultured cells. The study found that linking TDP-43 with SUMO prevents its aggregation, suggesting a potential new approach for treating ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Brain areas necessary for reasoning identified
A team of researchers at UCL has identified key brain regions essential for logical thinking and problem-solving. They used lesion-deficit mapping to study patients with brain lesions caused by stroke or tumors and found that damage to the right frontal lobe impaired reasoning skills.
A new tool to improve lives after brain injury is underway at The University of Texas at San Antonio
Researchers at The University of Texas at San Antonio are working on a new AI tool to improve lives after brain injury. They plan to analyze data from 3,000 veterans and develop an interactive dashboard for clinicians to use, providing insights that could revolutionize treatment.
Stephen Hauser wins breakthrough prize for role in redefining MS
Neuro-immunologist Stephen Hauser has won the 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for his role in identifying the immune system's primary driver of damage to nerve cells in multiple sclerosis. His B-cell theory has led to the development of therapies that have transformed treatment, reducing relapses and improving prognosis.
New research paves the way for better treatment of strokes
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a new understanding of how brain blood vessels react after a stroke. By mapping the molecular changes, they hope to find targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.
Q&A: UTA expert on Texas' growing measles crisis
The University of Texas at Arlington expert discusses the state's largest outbreak in 30 years, with fewer people getting vaccinated contributing to its spread. The MMR vaccine is 97% effective against measles and has been proven safe despite misconceptions about its safety.
UCLA discovers first stroke rehabilitation drug to repair brain damage
A new study by UCLA Health has discovered a drug that fully reproduces the effects of physical stroke rehabilitation in model mice. The drug, DDL-920, excites parvalbumin neurons, leading to significant recovery in movement control after stroke.
New insights into the mechanisms of language recovery after stroke
Researchers identified three key principles in language recovery after stroke: rapid reinforcement of damaged areas by unaffected network regions, activation of homologous mirror-image areas, and increased communication between affected areas.
Completely different mechanisms cause damage in males and females with a rare genetic syndrome
Researchers found that a rare genetic syndrome causes different damage mechanisms in male and female brains, affecting neurogenesis and energy production. The study suggests that the ADNP protein plays a crucial role in brain development and aging, with distinct functions in males and females.
Major trial to determine if ketamine can stop deadly epilepsy seizures
A new clinical trial will evaluate whether adding ketamine to standard treatment can improve outcomes for patients suffering from status epilepticus. The trial, called KESETT, hopes to determine whether ketamine can terminate the seizures in more patients than current treatments.
Study maps new brain regions behind intended speech
Researchers identified specific non-frontal brain areas involved in speech intent, which can be used to distinguish between language production and perception. This study is a crucial step towards developing a brain-computer interface to treat patients with Broca's aphasia.
New CAMH-developed drug shows promise in reversing memory loss for early Alzheimer's patients
A new drug developed by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has shown significant promise in reversing memory loss in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The drug, GL-II-73, selectively targets GABA receptors to restore brain function and repair damaged neural connections.
New drug shows promise in restoring vision for people with nerve damage
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered a promising drug candidate that accelerates the brain's natural repair mechanisms and improves vision-related brain functions. The treatment, LL-341070, enhances myelin repair, which is crucial for preventing vision loss in diseases like MS.
Red light linked to lowered risk of blood clots
Research led by University of Pittsburgh scientists found that exposure to long-wavelength red light reduces blood clots in humans and mice. The study's findings have the potential to reduce deaths and disabilities caused by blood clots worldwide.
Chinese Medical Journal article reveals the potential of efferocytosis in mitigating stroke-induced brain damage
Researchers explore the role of efferocytosis in reducing inflammation and containing injury spread after an ischemic stroke. Efferocytosis may offer a promising therapeutic strategy to promote neural regeneration and minimize brain damage.
Herpes virus might drive Alzheimer's pathology, study suggests
Researchers discovered a link between HSV-1 and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that viral infections play a role in the disease. The study also found that tau protein initially protects the brain from the virus but contributes to brain damage later.
Chinese Medical Journal study reveals potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) in finding new glaucoma drugs
A study published in Chinese Medical Journal explores the use of artificial intelligence to identify potential medications for treating glaucoma. Researchers used AI models to predict the effectiveness of small-molecule compounds targeting RIPK3, a key signaling molecule involved in programmed cell death.
SFU study sheds new light on what causes long-term disability after a stroke and offers new path toward possible treatment
A recent SFU study reveals how indirect brain damage affects thalamus function after a stroke, potentially leading to new treatments. Researchers found that the amount of damage to the thalamus correlates with the level of impairment in patients.
Oxygen redistribution in the brain
A team at Zhejiang University developed a novel strategy for early detection of high-altitude hypoxic brain injury using changes in oxygen content in brain regions over time. They found that brain regions with higher tolerance for hypoxia received less oxygen to support supply to more important areas.
UTA student recognized for research on high-fat diets
Ken Perry, a UTA senior, has been recognized for his research on the connection between high-fat meals and cardiovascular health. He won two awards from the American Physiological Society for his work analyzing data collected from previous studies, which showed a correlation between high-fat consumption and changes in brain blood flow.
Cerebral stroke in animal models with hypertension found to affect arteries in other body regions
A study found that cerebral stroke in hypertensive animal models impairs artery function and causes structural changes, including thickened walls and increased size. The use of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid provided long-term protection against brain damage.
Soccer heading damages brain regions affected in CTE
A study found that soccer heading causes structural brain abnormalities similar to those seen in CTE, affecting the frontal lobe and verbal learning. The research suggests repeated head impacts may harm brain health even without serious injury.
Immunomodulatory nanoparticles prevent secondary damage after traumatic brain injury
Researchers found that intravenous administration of immunomodulatory nanoparticles after TBI can limit inflammatory cell infiltration and reduce behavioral decline and lesion size. The treatment was shown to be safe without noticeable toxicity in mice.
Astronauts found to process some tasks slower in space, but no signs of permanent cognitive decline
Researchers examined 25 astronauts' cognitive performance over a 6-month ISS mission and found slower processing speed, working memory, and attention, but accuracy remained intact. No significant cognitive impairment or neurodegenerative decline was observed after the mission.
Brain aging and Alzheimer's: Insights from non-human primates
A new review highlights the differences in brain aging and Alzheimer's disease between humans and non-human primates, revealing that primate brains are more resistant to aging-related damage. The study suggests that tau tangles play a critical role in Alzheimer's progression, challenging the amyloid cascade hypothesis.
McMaster University researchers uncover potential treatment for rare genetic disorders
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a potential treatment for Sandhoff and Tay-Sachs diseases, two rare lysosomal storage disorders that cause progressive damage to nerve cells. The FDA-approved drug 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) showed significant improvements in motor function, lifespan, and healthy motor neurons.
Bystander CPR up to 10 minutes after cardiac arrest may protect brain function
Researchers analyzed nearly 200,000 cases of witnessed out-of-hospital cardiac arrests to determine the effectiveness of bystander CPR within different time windows. The study found that people who received CPR within the first few minutes had a higher survival rate and better brain function than those who didn't.
Biological damage in the brain of people with PTSD responds to a special protocol of hyperbaric therapy
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that a special protocol of hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve the condition of PTSD sufferers, reducing typical symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and irritability. The study showed improvements in brain connectivity and clinical symptoms, offering new hope for millions of PTSD suff...
How do you remember how to ride a bike? Thank your cerebellum
Studies show that the cerebellum is critical for forming stable memories for sensorimotor skills, largely independent of short-term memory systems. Researchers found that longer time intervals between trials increased reliance on impaired long-term memory.