Articles tagged with Neurological Disorders
Researchers at Nagoya University found an alternative route for microglia colonization in the embryonic brain, suggesting a novel approach to combat diseases like fetal brain dysfunction. Macrophages can convert into microglia later in development, providing new insights into microglial plasticity and behavior.
A team of scientists at MUSC identified a key gene that plays a role in the link between long-term stress and a common type of depressive behavior in mice. The study suggests that there may not be one central mechanism by which stress causes depression, but rather multiple pathways connecting stress with different symptoms.
A recent Brazilian study found that the Spike protein from SARS-CoV-2 is implicated in post-COVID-19 memory loss, with researchers identifying TLR4 receptor as a potential therapeutic target. The study involved experiments with mice and showed that infusion of the Spike protein induced delayed memory impairment.
A Virginia Tech researcher has identified a key factor in DiGeorge syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting brain development. The study finds that mitochondrial deficits can be targeted with dietary supplements or more precisely-targeted drugs to support final connections during brain development.
Researchers discovered a single amino acid mutation in glutamate transporter protein causes transient loss of muscle control. The mutation affects the protein's shape and transport rate, leading to reduced glutamate transport and increased anion imbalance in neural cells.
A review from UTHealth Houston identifies key benefits of telehealth in addressing health disparities among stroke survivors. The study suggests that telehealth can expand access to care and treatment while minimizing barriers related to digital literacy, physical limitations, and limited English proficiency.
Researchers developed O-ClickFC technology to analyze lipid metabolic state in cells at high speed. The technology combined with genome editing enabled identification of causative genes of metabolic disorders, including FLVCR1 and its role in choline uptake.
Scientists at the University of Helsinki have discovered that genetic mutations can significantly impact the accuracy of stem cell-based disease models. The researchers found that somatic mutations in genes like BCOR can affect the differentiation process and gene expression, leading to variations in the model's reliability.
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that women with mental illness are twice as likely to develop cervical cancer due to low screening rates and increased incidence of precancerous lesions. Researchers highlight the need for proactive measures to address inequality in care.
The VALOR-QI program will provide a blueprint for quality care improvement, focusing on high-risk patients and addressing health equity gaps. It will offer education, staff training, monitoring, and other steps to achieve better compliance with cholesterol management.
Experts advocate for genetic testing to identify MS patients at high risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a devastating side effect from medications. The availability of such testing could allow physicians to use alternative therapies, reducing the risk of PML.
A systematic review of 156 trials found that physical exercise improved motor symptoms and quality of life in people with Parkinson's Disease. Most types of structured exercise, including dance, water-based exercise, and endurance training, showed clinically meaningful benefits.
Researchers found that Matcha tea powder reduces depression in mice by activating dopaminergic neural circuits and improving mood. The study's results suggest that Matcha's antidepressant-like effects depend on the animal's prior mental state, with stress-susceptible mice showing a significant response.
Researchers from Dartmouth and University Medicine Essen found that strong links between brain measures and traits can be obtained when machine learning algorithms are utilized. This approach allows for high-powered results from moderate sample sizes, opening up studies of many traits and clinical conditions previously inaccessible.
Researchers discovered that lipid deposition on medical implant surfaces can signal to the immune system whether to attack or ignore the implant. This knowledge could help develop biomaterials that deflect host immune aggression, reducing malfunction rates for devices like pacemakers and surgical mesh.
The American College of Chest Physicians released a clinical practice guideline on respiratory management for patients with neuromuscular weakness, providing evidence-based recommendations for mouthpiece ventilation and airway clearance therapies. The guideline aims to improve care for this vulnerable population.
A recent study found that the side effects of treating brain diseases with antisense oligonucleotides are related to altered calcium balance. By modulating calcium levels, researchers hope to reduce neurotoxicity and improve treatment outcomes for various neurological diseases.
The study reveals that gasdermin E drives changes in neurons that contribute to disease progression, leading to mitochondrial damage and axon degeneration. Inactivating gasdermin E prevents cellular damage and delays the progression of ALS in mice.
A Dartmouth study found that COVID-19 can cause 'prosopagnosia,' or face blindness, and impairments in navigational abilities. Researchers worked with a patient who experienced difficulty recognizing faces and navigating, leading to dissociation between face recognition and cognitive map representation.
A meta-analysis of 34 studies found a significant association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and increased risks of developing diabetes, dyslipidemia, and heart disease. Children with ASD were more likely to develop these metabolic complications, prompting clinicians to monitor them closely.
A seven-component treatment program, including prompt medical assessment and co-constructing a formulation with the child and family, has been successful in managing FND in children and adolescents. Most healthcare professionals can easily add an FND-informed skill set to their current clinical practice.
A Scripps Research team has found that heavy alcohol consumption increases brain inflammation, leading to changes in signaling pathways and behavior. The study suggests a potential new drug target for treating alcohol use disorder by targeting the interleukin-1β pathway.
A new UC Davis study has identified 194 significantly different genes in the brains of people with autism, with many linked to brain connectivity, immune response, and inflammation. The research also found age-dependent differences in genes related to synaptic function and cell loss.
A team of biologists and engineers created a miniature facility called the Acoustic Gym to study exercise in tiny worms. They found that swimming exercises reduced neurodegeneration in genetically engineered worms with Parkinson's-like symptoms, which could lead to new treatments for humans.
Researchers have successfully grown electrodes in living tissue using the body's molecules as triggers, paving the way for fully integrated electronic circuits in living organisms. This breakthrough method allows for substrate-free organic bioelectronics and targets specific biological substructures for nerve stimulation.
A study published in PNAS reveals how environmental signals interact with genetic information to influence brain cell health and survival. The research highlights a protein called TNK2 that tunes dopamine levels, finding mutations lead to Parkinson's degeneration.
Taiyun Chi develops a neural interface with neural recording channel counts over 10 times higher than current technology and creates a noninvasive deep-brain-stimulation system based on temporally interfering electromagnetic waves.
Researchers confirmed the first cases of canine distemper virus in tigers and leopards in Nepal, which can cause fatal neurological disease. The study found that 11% of tigers and 30% of leopards had antibodies to CDV, indicating prior infection with the virus.
Researchers developed an AI model to analyze noncoding DNA mutations' impact on brain function and development, identifying potential causes of complex brain disorders like autism. The study sheds light on the origins of brain disorders and may lead to novel treatments.
Researchers found that platelet depletion increased amyloid plaque size and neuronal damage in APP-PS1 mice. However, platelets may have a beneficial role in limiting plaque growth and attenuating neuritic dystrophy at advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have discovered that cocaine addiction is associated with faster brain aging, with changes in DNA methylation in the prefrontal cortex contributing to this effect. The study, which analyzed cryo-preserved brains of deceased male donors, found that cells in this region appeared biologically older in individuals with CUD.
Researchers found no significant evidence of harm in lowering blood pressure targets after endovascular treatment, but trends suggested marginal benefit and potential worsening of long-term disability. Clinicians should consider auto-regulation of blood pressure unless above 180 mm Hg.
Two studies reveal that ME/CFS is associated with reduced levels of butyrate-producing microbes and differences in gut metabolites. Researchers found distinct changes in the microbiome of patients with short-term and long-term ME/CFS, suggesting a potential link between gut dysbiosis and the disease's severity.
Researchers discovered a causal mechanism behind BPTA syndrome by identifying a change in the HMGB1 protein that disrupts cellular self-organization. This disruption leads to developmental disorders and predisposition to cancer, with hundreds of comparable genetic changes associated with various conditions.
Researchers found differences in gut microbiomes of people with ME/CFS compared to healthy controls, indicating a potential role for the microbiome in the disease. Abnormal levels of specific bacteria and metabolites were associated with reduced butyrate production, which is essential for gut health.
The American Heart Association is recognizing 10 leading stroke scientists who have made significant contributions to the field of stroke research. Among them, Dr. Cheryl Bushnell will be honored with the Ralph L. Sacco Outstanding Stroke Research Mentor Award for her exceptional mentorship and research in women's issues related to str...
Researchers at USC Keck School of Medicine have identified two new avenues for treating diverse forms of ALS by suppressing genes and inhibiting proteins. The findings suggest that targeting SYF2 gene suppression and PIKFYVE kinase inhibition may lead to broadly effective treatments for the disease.
A new study found that children with conduct disorder who experienced childhood maltreatment have more extensive brain structural changes compared to those without maltreatment. The study highlights the unique contribution of childhood maltreatment to these changes and provides neurobiological insights into the heterogeneity of CD.
The study reveals that NEMO forms biomolecular condensates with ubiquitin chains to activate NF-κB signaling, facilitating rapid regulation of cellular responses. A pathogenic mutation in the NEMO gene inhibits this process, leading to a disease characterized by skin abnormalities and neurological symptoms.
A recent study found that recurrent stroke risk has declined over the past 20 years, with a greater decrease observed among women compared to men in South Texas. The study analyzed data from nearly 6,000 first-time ischemic stroke survivors and found that lifestyle changes and medication can help prevent recurrent strokes.
A new study suggests that intensive blood pressure treatment may slow the accumulation of toxins in the brain's perivascular spaces, a dynamic area involved in brain clearance. This finding is significant for understanding the relationship between high blood pressure and cognitive decline.
A new lifestyle-related biomarker, gluconic acid, is associated with high blood pressure and ischemic stroke in Black adults. The study suggests that a blood test measuring metabolites may help determine if diet and exercise are effective in lowering stroke risk.
Researchers found that patients treated with butylphthalide experienced milder neurological symptoms and better functioning at three months after a stroke compared to those who received a placebo. The study suggests potential benefits of this celery seed-derived medication in treating ischemic strokes.
Research suggests that poor oral health may contribute to declines in brain function and cognitive abilities. A recent study analyzed the relationship between oral health and brain health among approximately 40,000 adults and found a potential link between gum disease and white matter hyperintensities.
A new study finds that obesity-related neurodegeneration mimics Alzheimer's disease, with grey matter atrophy patterns similar in both groups. The researchers suggest that controlling excess weight could lead to improved health outcomes and slowed cognitive decline.
Researchers discovered that mitochondria actively transport coenzyme Q to the cell surface to protect cells from cell death. The transport process is crucial for regulating coenzyme Q distribution within the cell.
Researchers at Virginia Tech aim to understand the role of fatty acid deficiency in optic nerve hypoplasia. A recent grant supports studies on arachidonic acid supplementation as a potential treatment for the disease.
Researchers found that measles virus mutations in its fusion protein allow it to infect nerve cells, leading to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. The team's discovery sheds light on the evolutionary mechanisms of viruses like coronaviruses and herpesviruses.
Researchers created monthly infant brain atlases to track normative trends in brain development. The atlases reveal changes in brain structure, cortical geometry, and tissue contrast, shedding light on conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. The study aims to facilitate discovery of new insights into child cognition and social behavior.
A study published in Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that exercising alone twice or more weekly decreased the risk of developing cognitive impairment by 15.1%, while those who exercised with others showed a 29.2% decrease. Regular social exercise may be beneficial for preventing age-related cognitive disorders.
Researchers found a link between astrocytes from schizophrenic patients and reduced vascularization in the brain, which may contribute to the disease's metabolic flux. The study suggests that astrocytes could be a target for novel therapies to address schizophrenia.
Researchers found that abnormal methylation processes lead to disruption of gene expression essential for brain development in people with Williams syndrome. The study suggests targeting treatments to correct these disruptions.
Researchers tracked 392 patients with diffuse low-grade glioma over 20 years and found that aggressive surgical removal offered a distinct survival advantage. Smaller tumor sizes were associated with longer survival times, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
Researchers developed an innovative deep learning-based approach to classify epileptic seizures in near real-time, overcoming clinical limitations. The system uses action recognition with intelligent 3D cropping to distinguish between frontal and temporal lobes seizures or non-epileptic events.
Researchers discovered that ketamine increases background noise, impairing the function of thalamo-cortical neurons and affecting sensory perception. This finding may contribute to a better understanding of psychosis in schizophrenia.
Researchers discovered a new situation where vertical perception is compromised - when the body pitches and moves at the same time. In real-world experiments on Hong Kong's Peak Tram, they found that participants misjudged their perceived verticality by up to 10 degrees.
A new study has mapped the parts of the brain that support fluid intelligence, a key feature of human cognition. The research found that patients with damage to the right frontal regions performed poorly in tasks requiring problem-solving and reasoning.
A study published in Journal of Hepatology found that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can cause a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain and inflammation to brain tissue. The research identified Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1) as a potential therapeutic target for protecting against NAFLD-induced brain dysfunction.
Researchers found a new role for enzymes regulating genome function, which is linked to diseases such as brain tumors, blood cancers, and Kleefstra syndrome. The discovery could help understand these diseases and develop new treatments.
Researchers found that white matter hyperintensities are independently associated with premature brain aging, leading to progressive age-like brain atrophy. The study used machine-learning algorithms to estimate brain age and analyzed the relationship between WMH load and BrainGAP scores.