Research on diseases of the nervous system. Covers mitochondrial protection, macrophage replacement, Parkinson's costs, and brain-injury recovery.
A new national study finds that lesbian, gay, and bisexual adolescents in the US are more than twice as likely to report binge eating than their heterosexual peers. Stressors like discrimination and stigma can lead to poor self-esteem and disordered eating.
Researchers found that hierarchical cortical organization is impaired in people with schizophrenia, leading to disruptions in processing stimuli from the external world. This disruption affects secondary processing of sensorimotor-visual gradients, explaining behavioral and clinical symptoms of the disease.
Researchers have developed a lab-grown human skin model that effectively replicates mpox virus infections, providing insights into the virus's mechanisms of attack on skin cells. The study reveals how the virus causes disease and identifies potential therapeutic targets, including an antiviral drug called tecovirimat.
Researchers have created detailed cell maps of the human brain and nonhuman primate brain, paving the way for new generation of treatments for mental disorders. The study reveals a comprehensive inventory of brain cells, their organization, and gene regulation, setting the stage for developing targeted therapies.
Two parallel projects publish detailed cell atlases of the adult human brain and brain development, revealing over 3,000 cell types, including new insights into brain diseases and potential therapeutic targets. The freely available brain atlases will enable researchers to compare healthy brains with diseased ones.
Brain inflammation in early childhood may prevent specific neurons from maturing fully, leading to conditions like autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. Researchers studied post-mortem brain tissue from children with inflammatory conditions or accidents and found that two types of cerebellar neurons were most vulnerable.
A study by researchers at the University of California - Riverside found that certain aspects of video game play can stimulate dopamine release and potentially aid in treating Parkinson's disease symptoms. The research suggests a promising new approach for managing the condition.
Researchers discovered the STAT3 signaling pathway as a potential target for treating H3K27M-mutant diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs), a uniformly lethal central nervous system malignancy. The current standard of care, including palliative radiation and chemotherapy, remains ineffective in this disease.
The number of people who die from stroke globally is projected to increase by 50% to 9.7 million deaths per year by 2050, mainly affecting Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs). The annual costs are estimated to reach up to US$2.3 trillion, with a disproportionate impact on LMICs.
Researchers discuss lurbinectedin as a method to treat neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), with encouraging results from phase II basket studies demonstrating activity in platinum-sensitive relapsed SCLC and other malignancies. Lurbinectedin's mechanism of action involves inhibiting oncogenic transcription, promoting apoptosis and cell death.
A Phase IIIb study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that esketamine nasal spray achieved higher remission rates (27.1%) compared to quetiapine extended-release (17.6%) in patients with treatment-resistant depression, indicating its potential as a targeted therapy for this population.
Brazilian researchers screened 160 existing drugs and identified six compounds effective against Toxoplasma gondii. Almitrine, a COPD treatment, showed significant reduction in brain parasite load. Further studies are needed to repurpose these drugs for toxoplasmosis treatment.
A new CRISPR-based gene therapy platform will be developed to target genetic brain diseases like Angelman syndrome and H1-4 syndrome. The platform utilizes a novel delivery technology called STEP (Stimuli-responsive Traceless Engineering Platform), which has the capacity to revolutionize genome-editing therapy.
Researchers at the Technion have made a breakthrough in understanding sporadic Alzheimer's disease by identifying the mechanism behind protein accumulation. The study found that damage to the ubiquitin system leads to the accumulation of toxic proteins, even in healthy tissue, mimicking typical Alzheimer's pathology.
Researchers discovered that a mutation in the gene ACTA2 causes moyamoya disease and strokes in young children. The mutation leads to dysfunctional smooth muscle cells in arteries, resulting in blockages and increased risk of stroke. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for moyamoya disease.
A recent study published in Radiology: Artificial Intelligence found significant racial and sex-related biases in an AI chest X-ray foundation model, affecting its performance across patient subgroups. The researchers highlighted the need for comprehensive bias analysis to ensure diversity and representativeness in dataset collection.
A team of scientists has discovered a second toxin produced by the cyanobacterium Aetokthonos hydrillicola, which is highly toxic and similar to substances used in cancer treatment. The findings could lead to the development of new anti-cancer drugs.
The University of Minnesota Medical School has received a $16 million grant from the NIH BRAIN Initiative to create detailed maps of brain connections. This project aims to better understand how complex neural pathways generate human behaviors and develop treatments for brain disorders.
Researchers have developed an integrated sensor capable of capturing and enhancing bio-signals, paving the way for potential treatments of brain disorders. The innovative technology uses inkjet printing to create a flexible substrate with a custom-made sensor.
Researchers launch EU-funded initiative to uncover EBV's role in MS, aiming to find underlying mechanism and develop antiviral treatments. The project seeks to improve disease course or stop progression, with potential for preventive strategies like vaccination.
The new guidelines provide a framework for genetic testing and counseling, recommending comprehensive testing and gene-targeted therapies for all persons with ALS. The guidelines aim to improve access and standardize practice among neurologists and genetic counselors.
A UMass Amherst neuroscientist is mapping the brain of a sea slug to study how neurons are added to functional neural circuits, shedding light on how this process contributes to neurological conditions. The project aims to provide an unprecedented look at brain development and potentially inform human brain development.
Experts convened at the Stroke Treatment Academic Industry Roundtable XII meeting to address key issues hindering enrollment in acute stroke trials. Broadening emergency consent procedures and adopting efficient trial designs are recommended to enhance participant recruitment.
A study published in Sleep Medicine found that arousal disorders, including sexsomnia and sleep eating, often go untreated due to a lack of consensus on best treatments. Cognitive behavioral therapy and sleep hygiene have shown effectiveness in managing these conditions, which can result in injuries or weight gain.
York University researchers found that maternal care significantly impacts the development, microbiome, and health of wild carpenter bees. Without proper care, pathogen loads increase, leading to reduced microbiomes, increased disease susceptibility, and poor overall health.
Researchers developed a technique called CHOOSE that allows them to test the effect of multiple mutations in parallel and at a single-cell level within human brain organoids. The study identified critical transcriptional changes regulated through common networks, or GRNs, and found that some cell types are more susceptible to autism mu...
A study published in NPJ Aging reveals that COVID-19 exacerbates production of auto-antibodies associated with blood clotting disorders and aging. Researchers found that severe COVID-19 cases display a significant age-related increase in auto-antibodies, which can lead to tissue injury and organ damage.
A new study suggests that transcranial ultrasound stimulation can be used to change specific types of activity within the brain, paving the way for targeted treatments of mental health conditions. The research found that TUS induced significant changes in GABA concentration and altered communication between brain regions.
A new study uses brain imaging to explore the neural underpinnings of uncertainty processing in OCD, finding that patients struggle with certainty and decision-making, particularly when outcomes are more certain. This understanding may offer new hope for developing therapies targeting uncertainty processing in OCD.
Researchers are developing a new treatment for ischemic stroke by targeting the prostaglandin receptor EP2, which could have a wider therapeutic window and improve behavioral outcomes. The potential new treatment has the potential to reduce inflammation and provide protection for neurons after an ischemic stroke.
A new NYU Langone Health program trains neurology residents to diagnose neurological ailments using simulated virtual exams. The curriculum includes 'actor-patients' and self-testing, improving residents' comfort levels and interest in teleneurology, a crucial skill for the future of healthcare.
Researchers developed a new model of hereditary Alzheimer's disease in marmosets by introducing mutations into the PSEN1 gene, which causes early-onset disease in humans. The study aims to characterize and validate genetic, molecular, functional, and cognitive features of aging and Alzheimer's disease in these animals.
This review summarizes six common RNA modifications, including m6A, m5C, m1A, m7G, Ψ, and A-to-I editing, which play crucial roles in various human diseases. The authors discuss the mechanisms of these modifications and their targeting by small molecule inhibitors.
A groundbreaking review paper reveals the importance of GABA tone, the amount of GABA that regulates continuous signaling in the brain. The study identifies key mechanisms and functions, including astrocytes' role in regulating GABA tone and its impact on cognitive processes.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed SparkMaster2, an open-source software that analyzes normal and abnormal calcium activity in human cells. The tool can identify calcium sparks associated with irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmia, enabling better understanding of the underlying biology.
Research reveals that T-cell infiltration into the brain is the primary cause of pulmonary dysfunction in Cryptococcus-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (C-IRIS). The study provides new insights into the condition and potential treatment pathways.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a 'mini-brain' that tracks the effects of concussive force on brain cells, revealing a link between head trauma and Alzheimer's disease. The study found that even hours after a hit, acrolein production leads to misfolded amyloid beta protein aggregation.
A new study found that people who received free produce prescriptions experienced increased fruit and vegetable consumption, leading to improved body mass index, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. This research suggests that produce prescription programs may be an effective way to address food insecurity and promote health.
A new MU study highlights the protective role of innate lymphoid cells and interferons in reducing neurological effects of Brucellosis. The findings could lead to improved diagnostics and therapies for neurobrucellosis, a condition that can cause long-term neurological complications.
Patients with severe long COVID often struggle with fatigue and exertion intolerance, with recovery rates varying depending on the initial infection's severity. A recent study found that those with ME/CFS experience little to no improvement in symptoms, while some patients in a second group show gradual improvement over time.
Researchers found novel autoantibodies implicated in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, and recurrent pregnancy loss. These autoantibodies are also associated with infertility and endometriosis-associated infertility.
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a nanoscale optical technique to monitor protein aggregates forming in cells, which can lead to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and ALS. The study provides a new window into the transition of proteins from liquid to solid phase.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed a brain-computer interface that can decode the intended words of a speech-disabled person and display them on a computer screen. The technology has shown promise in restoring communication for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who are unable to speak.
Researchers have successfully transplanted human microglia cells into mouse retina, creating a model for studying treatments for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. The study demonstrates the potential of microglial replacement therapy to treat retinal and central nervous system diseases.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have made a breakthrough in treating Hurler syndrome using gene therapy. The new approach produced normal enzymes from the liver that were able to sustain normal connections within specific neural networks, restoring brain connectivity.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses, naturally present in the human genome, can influence the spread of tau aggregates between cells. This suggests that viral proteins could be potential targets for therapies to stop or slow neurodegeneration.
A new study found that high-stress caregivers had higher klotho levels and longer telomeres in specific immune cells, which may provide protection against aging. In contrast, low-stress caregivers showed no significant associations between klotho levels and telomere length.
Researchers developed a new mathematical model to study circadian rhythm resilience and develop ways to improve it in individuals with weak internal clocks. Sustained disruptions can lead to disorders like diabetes and memory loss.
A Penn State-led research team discovered that somatostatin signaling acts to dampen communication among cell types in the prefrontal cortex, promoting exploratory and risk-taking-like behavior. The findings suggest that somatostatin fine-tunes circuits to promote certain behaviors, including decision making.
A first-in-human trial of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for post-stroke rehabilitation patients has shown that DBS to target the dentate nucleus improves motor impairment and function, with gains nearly tripling initial scores. The study also found significant improvements in quality of life.
A study of nearly 1,300 individuals diagnosed with six types of mental illness reveals diverse brain changes, with no more than 7% showing similar deviations in the same area. The research identifies potential treatment targets for individualized therapy.
Researchers found an abnormal imbalance of excitatory cortical neurons in people with autism spectrum disorder, depending on their head size. The study used human 'mini-brain' models called organoids to recreate the brain development alteration that occurred in patients during fetal development.
Researchers have created a novel animal model to study the pathogenesis of neurobrucellosis, a severe complication of brucellosis. The model reveals that innate lymphoid cells and interferons play a crucial role in limiting brain damage during Brucella infection.
Scientists discover unique immune cells in skull's bone marrow, facilitating movement of immune cells between brain and skull, offering new possibilities for diagnosing and treating neurological diseases. Non-invasive skull imaging may enable early detection and monitoring of conditions like Alzheimer's and stroke.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered a non-ectodermal and mesodermal origin for large numbers of enteric neurons born after birth. This finding overturns decades of scientific dogma and offers hope for disease-modifying cures to aging patients.
Researchers from Shinshu University have developed a novel neuromodulation approach that incorporates gait-combined closed-loop transcranial electrical stimulation, demonstrating significant gait improvements in patients with Parkinson's disease. The treatment showed encouraging results after just ten repetitions, improving speed, gait...
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method using nanopores to advance discoveries in neuroscience and medical applications. The technique allows for real-time detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions, which can aid in understanding DNA and RNA diseases and drug discovery.
Researchers developed an innovative optical tool, the Schistoscope, to capture microscopy images of urine samples for efficient detection of Schistosoma haematobium eggs. A two-stage diagnostic framework using deep learning accurately identified and counted eggs in field settings with high sensitivity, specificity, and precision.
Researchers have discovered a group of nerve cells in the midbrain that can completely stop all forms of movement and slow down breathing and heart rate when stimulated. The study provides valuable insight into how the nervous system controls movement and may help understand Parkinson's disease.
A new open-source software, NMSM Pipeline, enables clinicians and engineers to create personalized computer models of patient movement to optimize treatment designs. The software uses physics-based models to predict and optimize functional outcomes for patients with various mobility impairments.