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What links cannabis use and psychosis? Researchers point to the brain’s dopamine system

Researchers have found that people with cannabis use disorder have elevated dopamine levels in a brain region associated with psychosis. This could explain why frequent cannabis use increases the risk of hallucinations and delusions. The study's findings may help doctors educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis u...

SourceMcGill University·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateApr 9, 2025

Positron emission tomography in psychiatry: Dr. Romina Mizrahi maps the molecular future

Dr. Romina Mizrahi's PET-based neuroimaging sheds light on brain workings, integrating genetics, environment and imaging to understand psychiatric illness as a complex biological puzzle. She advocates for precision psychiatry paradigm with customized treatments based on molecular profiles, and calls for diversity in academic leadership.

SourceGenomic Press·JournalBrain Medicine·TypeNews article·DateApr 8, 2025

Latest Alzheimer’s drug shown less effective in females than males

A recent study published in The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association found that lecanemab, a new Alzheimer's-modifying drug, was less effective in female patients compared to males. The Phase 3 clinical trial showed a significant benefit in males, but little to no benefit in females, with the cause of the difference still unknown.

SourceMcGill University·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2025

Stowers scientists uncover principles underlying the toxicity of “selfish” genes

Researchers found that selfish genes use self-assembly properties to harm cells, with aggregate size and distribution being key factors in toxicity. The study also reveals an evolutionary arms race between sabotage and salvation, where rapid evolution of 'selfish' genes can lead to their own destruction.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2025

A study by UPF and Oxford clarifies that people take decisions more quickly than computers in situations of risk using quantum physics techniques

A new model of brain computational analysis, called CHARM, reveals that the human brain can surpass machines in critical decision-making. The CHARM model applies quantum mechanics to analyze long-distance brain connections, enabling precise modeling of the brain's dynamics.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalPhysical Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 12, 2025

Large population study identifies long-term health risks after COVID-19 hospitalization

A nationwide study found that COVID-19 hospital patients experienced a higher rate of deaths from any cause and were more likely to be hospitalized for specific conditions, particularly neurological and respiratory problems. The study also identified increased risks of chronic health complications up to 30 months after discharge.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalInfectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2025

Schizophrenia is reflected in the brain structure

A new study reveals that schizophrenia's complexity is reflected in the individual brain structures of patients, with some experiencing perceptual disturbances and others cognitive impairments. The research suggests a precision medicine approach could tailor therapies to each patient's unique neurobiological profile.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 26, 2025

Surgery may improve memory and psychological health for Chiari malformation patients, Pitt and UPMC surgeons report

A study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that surgery can alleviate psychiatric distress and improve cognitive function in patients with Chiari Malformation type 1. Nearly 90% of patients showed improvements in cognitive function or psychiatric symptoms, with many reporting a significant reduction in brain fog.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateFeb 21, 2025

Study suggests new molecular strategy for treating fragile X syndrome

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have discovered a new approach to treating fragile X syndrome by enhancing the activity of a specific component of 'NMDA' receptors. This strategy normalizes protein synthesis, neural activity and seizure susceptibility in hippocampus of fragile X lab mice, offering a promising therapeutic target.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Researchers uncover surprising link to stroke risk

A new study from the University of Texas at Arlington found that Americans aged 65 and older who experienced parental divorce as children were more likely to suffer a stroke compared to their peers. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 older Americans and found that about 14% had experienced parental divorce during childhood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS One·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 2025

Peristaltic pump flow induces amyloid formation

Researchers from Osaka University found that peristaltic pump action promotes amyloid nucleation in supersaturated fluids, including blood and cerebrospinal fluid. High shear stress caused by the pumping motion mechanically breaks supersaturation to induce amyloid formation.

SourceOsaka University·Journalnpj Biosensing·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2025

Research spotlight: Mapping lesions that cause psychosis to a human brain circuit and proposed stimulation target

Studies identified 153 cases of psychosis caused by brain lesions, which connected to a common circuit in the hippocampus. The circuit, including the rostromedial prefrontal cortex, is a promising target for transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy, potentially improving symptoms in patients with schizophrenia.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 12, 2025