Articles tagged with Neurological Disorders
Researchers at the University of Toronto discovered a new RNA virus, Apocryptovirus odysseus, associated with severe inflammation in humans infected with Toxoplasma gondii. The virus is found in two hypervirulent strains of the parasite, exacerbating toxoplasmosis disease and triggering an immune response.
A study by NIH-funded researchers visualizes the full network of blood vessels across the cortex of awake mice, revealing that blood vessels rhythmically expand and contract leading to 'waves' washing across the surface of the brain. The function of these waves remains a mystery.
A study published in Nature Human Behaviour reveals that the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) is critical for prosocial behaviors, including helping others. Participants with vmPFC damage exhibited reduced motivation to help, exert less effort, and earned less money compared to control groups.
Researchers at Okayama University developed a novel AAK1 inhibitor using Kinobeads technology, shedding light on its inhibitory mechanism and targeting various neurological disorders and viral infections. This breakthrough paves the way for rapid and cost-effective enzyme inhibitors with clinical applications.
A recent study has cataloged gene-isoform variation in the developing human brain, providing crucial insights into neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. The research found thousands of isoform switches that occur during brain development, implicating previously uncharacterized RNA-binding proteins.
A UCLA Health study has unveiled the link between genetic risk of autism and observed cellular activity in the brain. Researchers analyzed post-mortem brain tissue from 66 individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder, to identify changes in cortical cell types and transcription factor networks.
Two studies published in Science reveal significant advances in understanding the molecular biology of neuropsychiatric disease, including a comprehensive map of regulatory components of the brain. The research provides critical insights into the pathogenesis of mental health disorders and holds promise for therapeutic applications.
The study reveals that FLVCR1 and FLVCR2 transport choline and ethanolamine across cellular membranes, supporting cell growth and stability. This discovery contributes to understanding rare diseases and developing new therapies for patients suffering from severe neurological and muscular disorders.
Researchers develop a new CRISPR screen technology to determine disease mechanism from tissues, accelerating analysis of neurological disorders. The method provides a way to rapidly examine brain cell types linked to key developmental genes, helping unravel genetic and cellular drivers of different diseases.
New research reveals exercise reverts aged microglia gene expression patterns to those of young microglia, supporting the formation of new neurons in the hippocampus. Exercise also reduces T cell accumulation in the brain, a common feature of aging.
A new study has revealed that high-income individuals have a 32% lower risk of post-stroke mortality. Those with higher education also face a 26% lower risk of death post-stroke.
Researchers used CRISPR/Cas9 DNA editing to insert genetic mutations found in humans with Tourette disorder into mouse embryos, creating a model to study the neurobiology and test new medications. The mice exhibited repetitive motor behaviors and sensorimotor gating deficits, similar to those seen in humans with the disorder.
Researchers at UC Riverside identify NMD pathway as crucial for early brain development and preventing microcephaly. The study links NMD regulation of brain size control to the tumor suppressor gene p53, suggesting potential new connections between NMD and cancer.
Researchers found a genetic link between higher circulating levels of arachidonic acid and lower risk for bipolar disorder. The study suggests that altering arachidonic acid synthesis pathways may reduce bipolar disorder risk, particularly in those with compromised pathways.
Scientists have identified the genetic mutation that causes SCA4, a progressive neurological disorder. The mutated gene ZFHX3 leads to impaired protein recycling in nerve cells, causing symptoms such as difficulty walking and balancing. This discovery opens the door to potential treatments for both SCA4 and another related form of ataxia.
A previously healthy man developed toxic leukoencephalopathy after inhaling fentanyl, leading to inflammation in the brain and potentially irreversible damage. Fortunately, he slowly recovered with wraparound treatment from a multidisciplinary team at OHSU.
Researchers developed tiny, flexible devices that can wrap around individual nerve fibers without damaging them. The robotic nerve cuffs are sensitive enough to grasp delicate nerves and only require tiny voltages to change shape.
Researchers found a bias in X-chromosome inactivation that protects females from harmful mutations linked to autism. The study suggests the paternal X chromosome is inactivated in 60% of cells, preventing mutation effects.
Researchers identify TRMT10C enzyme causing methylation of ND5 mRNA, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced energy supply to the brain. Impairment of complex I in the respiratory chain contributes to Alzheimer's disease pathology.
A new study assesses cognitive impairment over time in adults with essential tremor, finding a cumulative prevalence of 26.6% for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 18.5% for dementia. Early detection is crucial to slow further cognitive decline and improve quality of life.
Researchers have developed a magnetic coil array called MagPatch that can stimulate individual neurons with precision. The device uses soft magnetic materials to boost the magnetic field, reducing the need for high current levels.
Researchers used machine learning to analyze over 1.09 million potential metabolite-receptor pairs and predict the likelihood that each interaction contributed to Alzheimer's disease. The study found a protective metabolite called agmatine interacting with a receptor called CA3R in brain cells, reducing CA3R levels and lowering phospho...
Researchers at Tulane University identified a promising new approach to treating persistent neurological symptoms associated with Lyme disease. Fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitors showed promise in reducing inflammation and cell death in brain and nerve tissue samples infected with Borrelia burgdorferi.
Researchers at UCSF have identified laryngeal and tracheal neuroendocrine cells that sense water and acid in the upper airway, triggering a cough reflex. The discovery could lead to interventions to prevent pneumonia and treat certain types of chronic cough.
The Digitally programmable Over-brain Therapeutic (DOT) device, the size of a pea, activates the motor cortex, allowing patients to move their hands. The technology offers greater patient autonomy and accessibility than current neurostimulation-based therapies.
A study analyzing 8,384 clinical appointments found that women aged 45 are the majority of patients treated at public psychiatric outpatient clinics in Brazil. The patients had sadness, anxiety, and irritability as primary symptoms, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors being commonly prescribed medications.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that treating gum disease after a heart rhythm ablation procedure can lower oral inflammation and reduce the risk of AFib recurrence. Researchers found that an index measuring the severity of gum inflammation was associated with the return of AFib, highligh...
A randomized controlled trial found that co-administration of probiotic and vitamin D supplements improved MoCA scores and increased the percentage of patients with normal cognition in individuals with schizophrenia. The study suggests that probiotics may be a novel way to treat mental disorders by regulating gut microbiota.
A new study at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that standardizing seizure action plans improves epilepsy management. The study involved 204 adult patients, who showed significant improvement in seizure management after receiving structured SAPs.
Air pollution exposures are linked to increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The new PM2.5 standard may not be sufficient to mitigate these risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Researchers at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have identified a novel biological mechanism that regulates mitochondrial function through RNA methylation. This finding holds promise for developing new treatments for neurological diseases like spinal muscular atrophy and autism, as well as various cancers.
Researchers from China conducted a nationwide study to assess optimal treatment strategies for CSDH. The study found that multimodality management and personalized treatment plans significantly reduced recurrence rates.
The American Society for Nutrition is offering complimentary press passes to its annual flagship meeting, NUTRITION 2024. The event will explore cutting-edge advances in nutrition research, practice, and policy.
Researchers discovered that mature oligodendrocytes, critical for brain function, can survive for up to 45 days after a fatal trauma, defying the classical programmed cell-death pathway. This finding opens new avenues for understanding and potentially preventing damage caused by aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers found that nontraditional stroke risk factors like migraines are as important as traditional risk factors like high blood pressure for adults younger than ages 35-45. The association between stroke and nontraditional stroke risk factors was stronger in adults younger than 35 years old.
A large-scale animal study reveals that brain pH and lactate levels are a common feature across various neuropsychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism, depression, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Changes in brain energy metabolism are linked to cognitive impairment, particularly working memory.
Researchers discovered changes to blood vessels in the brain that can increase stroke and dementia risk are common in people with heart conditions. The study confirms heart disease as a main cause of these changes, highlighting the importance of imaging tests to guide safer treatment choices.
Researchers developed a new triplex real-time PCR test to detect the emerging Powassan virus in deer ticks, improving sensitivity and accuracy. The method reduced false negative results, providing assurance that negative test results are true negatives.
Research reveals people with neurodevelopmental conditions possess various strengths, including improved social skills, creativity, and problem-solving. The study aims to reduce stigma by promoting greater social inclusion and societal benefits.
A new task force formed under C-Path's Rare Disease Cures Accelerator-Data and Analytics Platform aims to advance therapeutic development for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). The collaboration leverages collective expertise to foster innovation, identify critical gaps in research, and expedite treatment advancements.
A new study published in Stroke found that exposure to artificial, bright outdoor nighttime light may increase the risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke. The research, which analyzed data from over 28,000 adults living in China, suggests that higher levels of outdoor light pollution at night may be a risk factor for these conditions.
Researchers found that a high-fat diet suppresses the expression of a key protein in the gut, leading to inflammation and increased risk of Alzheimer's. Managing diabetes may be key to preventing or slowing down dementia symptoms.
A recent study published in Cell reveals significant similarities between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), two distinct neurological disorders. The research found shared gene expression patterns across various brain regions, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for both conditions.
Researchers from NTU Singapore and the University of Toulouse discovered a link between ionophores, cellular ion balance, and inflammation. The study found that cells trigger an immune response when potassium ions fall below a certain level, releasing pro-inflammatory molecules.
Researchers have identified genetic variants linked to cognitive control and social problems in schizophrenia, potentially paving the way for more effective treatments. The study found that these variants are not targeted by current medications, which often focus on dopamine pathways.
The USC CIRM ASCEND Center will offer organoids, single-cell analysis, and spatial transcriptomics services to the California research community. The center aims to facilitate collaboration, technology transfer, and a competent workforce in personalized medicine.
People with dementia experience declines in social well-being as their disease progresses, while caregivers become isolated due to caregiving responsibilities. Experts recommend screening for loneliness and finding ways to keep individuals socially connected to improve quality of life and reduce health outcomes.
Researchers have identified a potential therapeutic target for Borjeson-Forssman-Lehman Syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by seizures and intellectual disability. The study found that PHF6 gene mutations impair Ephrin receptor regulation, leading to neural stem cell misregulation.
A new study by researchers at the University of Minnesota reveals that non-invasive brain stimulation can change a specific brain mechanism related to human behavior. The technique, called transcranial alternating current stimulation, modulates brain activity by shifting when brain cells are active.
Researchers have discovered new genetic mechanisms related to spinocerebellar ataxia type 37, a rare neurological disorder that affects balance and movement. The study employed advanced techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and machine learning to uncover the disease's underlying causes.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that recreational activities such as golfing, gardening, and woodworking may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in men. The study surveyed over 700 individuals with and without ALS to assess their hobbies and non-work related activities.
The chikungunya virus infects CD14+ CD16+ monocytes and affects proteins holding epithelial cells of the blood-brain barrier together. The study found severe alterations in coagulation cascade, hemodynamic damage in organs, and high levels of inflammatory cytokines.
A new study led by Swansea University found that people with epilepsy had a significantly higher risk of COVID hospitalizations and deaths during the pandemic. Researchers analyzed data from 27,000 people with epilepsy in Wales and compared them to a control group of 135,000 without epilepsy.
The Federation of European Neuroscience Societies is open to media registration for its 2024 event. Journalists can access the latest research discoveries in neuroscience fields such as dementia, addiction and depression.
Researchers develop AI model to predict combinations of gene perturbations that can transform cell type or restore diseased cells. The study's findings have potential applications in regrowing injured tissues and transforming cancer cells back into normal cells.
UCSF scientists discover delivering therapeutic molecules to amniotic fluid can effectively treat Angelman syndrome and other neurological conditions. The treatment uses antisense oligonucleotides, which can alter gene expression, and has shown improved motor function and learning outcomes in mice.
Researchers found that faulty mtDNA replication causes mitochondria to leak genetic material, triggering an immune response and leading to disease. By targeting this process, doctors may develop therapies to prevent harmful inflammation.
Dr. Ryyna Ethell's lab at UC Riverside has been awarded a $2.4 million NIH grant to investigate the role of astrocytes in inhibitory synapse development and their connection to neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD and autism.
Two new studies explore the link between attention and eye movements, showing that attention can be lost when objects change suddenly before gaze falls on them. Researchers also found distinct neuronal signatures in primate visual cortex for attention and eye movement signals.
A study analyzing ELSA data found that osteoporosis, heart disease, and poor hearing increased frailty risk in men, while high fibrinogen levels, diabetes, and stroke were linked to higher risks in women. This highlights the importance of gender-specific action plans and intervention for older people.