Articles tagged with Neurological Disorders
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have developed a new tool to measure proteins in brain cells, revealing how brain activity remodels the physical structure of neurons. The study found that certain proteins related to DNA packaging play a key role in gene expression changes after neural activity.
A recent study analyzed the records of over 33,000 dementia patients in Wales and found that those closest to their diagnosis were taking an average of three or more medications. This suggests a possible link between polypharmacy and the development of dementia.
Research in Zambia suggests children infected with HIV are more likely to struggle with cognitive and mental health issues despite well-controlled disease. Early intervention through better nutrition and antiretroviral therapies may improve neurological function.
Researchers at UCSF discovered a small molecule called ISRIB that can reverse the neural and cognitive effects of concussion in mice, weeks after an injury occurred. The drug blocks the integrated stress response, which became chronically activated in damaged neurons, restoring normal spine dynamics and cognitive function.
A new study has discovered two distinct cell populations in Alzheimer's Disease: disease-associated microglia and disease inflammatory macrophages. The former exhibits beneficial functions, while the latter displays pro-inflammatory features.
Scientists have developed a new method to study human brain development by growing millimetre-sized three-dimensional tissues called organoids from pluripotent stem cells. The researchers characterized the cells in molecular-genetic terms, creating a kind of map showing the molecular fingerprint of each cell within the organoid.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that psychotic disorders like schizophrenia are associated with a higher risk of developing dementia. People with psychotic disorders are 2.5 times more likely to develop dementia than those without a psychotic disorder, according to the review.
Researchers at USF Health successfully tested a protein that activates a unique pathway in cells to increase survival and protect endothelial cells from toxic substances. The study reveals the potential of apolipoprotein A1 as a novel therapeutic for ALS patients, with the goal of slowing disease progression and alleviating symptoms.
The CMU Array, a new microelectrode array, offers customized treatments for neurological disorders by allowing for three-dimensional sampling and ultra-high-density configurations. This technology has the potential to transform how doctors treat conditions like epilepsy and limb function loss.
Researchers investigate how motor proteins transport vital proteins and RNAs to the right location within cells, where they can cause or prevent genetic neurological diseases. By understanding these highly regulated transport systems, scientists hope to develop new treatments for conditions like spinal muscular atrophy and Charcot-Mari...
A Rutgers-led study statistically evaluated government data to determine if COVID-19 vaccination increases the incidence of Guillain-Barré syndrome. The results show no significant association between any COVID-19 vaccinations and the disease.
A study from UniSA researchers found associations between metabolic profiles and adverse brain findings, including lower hippocampal and grey matter volumes. People with metabolic profiles linked to obesity were more likely to have higher accumulation of iron in the brain.
A study at Michigan Medicine found multiple lipid biomarkers linked to diabetic neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. High scores for neuropathy were associated with changes in lipids reflecting impaired energy metabolism, suggesting a potential target for testing and managing the condition.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $10.7 million grant to Cleveland Clinic to expand a national research consortium focused on improving diagnosis and treatments for Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The consortium, which includes multiple clinical sites, aims to identify biomarkers for disease and develop new therapies.
A study found that aberrant expression of MAO-B causes both peripheral and neuroinflammation in RA patients, leading to joint pain and cognitive impairment. Administering an MAO-B inhibitor called KDS2010 improved both joint inflammation and cognitive function in a RA animal model.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
A new study found that certain pre-existing conditions have a more significant impact on COVID-19 outcomes than previously thought. Researchers developed a novel prediction model, PDeathDx, which outperformed conventional models and identified degenerative neurological diseases, dementia, and severe disabilities as major risk factors.
A University at Buffalo-led study suggests the huntingtin protein is involved in neuronal injury and regeneration. The research found that HTT moves from the injury site to the cell body, carrying components necessary for survival.
A new research model allows scientists to study hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) and test potential therapeutics. HSPs cause increased muscle tone in infants and young children, leading to wheelchair-bound individuals who lose motor function.
Researchers have identified a small molecule drug, SHP656, that can target the circadian clock proteins responsible for glioblastoma's recurrence and spread. The drug has shown promise in reducing cancer stem cell growth without harming normal stem cells.
A novel fluorescent sensor has been developed to visualize the release of oxytocin, also known as the 'happy hormone', in living animals. The sensor, called MTRIA OT, allows for real-time measurement of extracellular oxytocin dynamics in the brain, revealing variability in OT levels dependent on behavioral and physical conditions.
Researchers at UCLA and UCSF will map gene regulatory regions to understand how genetic variants affect brain development. They aim to build a comprehensive catalog of cell types in the developing brain and identify specific cell types and genomic regions that mediate the risk of brain diseases.
A new study reveals key differences in dopamine disposal machinery between male and female mice with a rare human genetic variant found in boys with ADHD or ASD. Females exhibit unique behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety and novelty recognition issues, while males display reduced social behavior and perseverative traits.
Women with a history of gestational diabetes are at substantially higher risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. Continuous monitoring is crucial to mitigate these risks.
A pooled data analysis found that deep brain stimulation reduced OCD symptoms by 47% and improved substantial outcomes in two-thirds of participants. This treatment approach showed promising results in addressing severe OCD with substantial improvement in approximately half of the patients.
Tel Aviv University researchers discovered that skin cancer cells interact with astrocytes in the brain, promoting metastasis. By inhibiting this interaction using existing treatments, they delayed the spread of melanoma to the brain by 60-80%. This breakthrough has implications for treating advanced-stage melanoma.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to analyze cognitive changes and impairment in the brain, applicable to multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases. The model uses multilayer networks for comprehensive analysis of CT scans, X-rays, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging data.
Adults with ADHD are more than twice as likely to develop at least one cardiovascular disease compared to those without the condition. The study found that ADHD is an independent risk factor for a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac arrest and peripheral vascular diseases.
The University of Ottawa-led team aims to bridge the gap between heart and brain health by developing new diagnostic tools and treatments. They will focus on improving patient outcomes for disorders linked to both organs.
The NEUROCOV project seeks to understand the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the nervous system, with a focus on immune response and neuronal functions. The research aims to predict risk for neurological symptoms and develop effective treatments.
A new study identified distinct metabolic profiles in women with Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension (IIH), a condition characterized by raised brain pressure. Weight loss programs showed positive effects on results, suggesting that metabolism plays a role in disease development.
Researchers used data from over 400,000 individuals to model genetic and environmental factors influencing common neuropsychiatric disorders. Gene-environment interactions accounted for a significant proportion of variability in some disorders, while others showed more substantial contributions.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University develop a groundbreaking method to eradicate glioblastoma brain tumors by targeting astrocytes and starving them of energy. The study found that in the absence of these brain cells, tumor cells die and are eliminated, offering a promising basis for developing effective medications.
Researchers identified critical period plasticity in the amygdala that can be treated with therapeutic intervention at key developmental time points. Early pharmacological intervention was shown effective in reducing fear-learning in the mouse model.
Researchers at CSU found that a gene called MSH1 helps keep plant mitochondrial genomes mutation-free, allowing for quick sorting of normal and diseased DNA. This process is more efficient in plants than in humans, where mutations are passed down through generations.
A team of researchers from Ritsumeikan University in Japan has elucidated the mechanism behind the liquid-solid phase transition of FUS protein that leads to ALS. They discovered a new therapeutic target, arginine, which suppresses FUS aggregation and could delay ALS progression.
Research reveals that 32 species of animals, including prawns, crabs, and lizards, can act as carriers of the rat lungworm parasite, which can cause serious illness and death. The study aims to raise awareness about paratenic hosts and prevent infection by avoiding eating raw or infected animals.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have discovered a new pathway that could help prevent Alzheimer's dementia. Increasing the clearance of waste products in the brain by ramping up a genetic quirk known as readthrough may be effective for other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease.
A study has found that pheasant meat can contain small fragments of toxic lead, which can be absorbed by the body and cause long-term harm. Researchers detected up to 10mg of tiny lead shards per pheasant, widely distributed within the bird's tissues.
A study investigated the frequency and characteristics of non-motor symptoms in ALS patients, finding over 90% experienced symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and sleep disorders. These symptoms reduced QoL even when motor symptoms were mild, highlighting their importance to consider.
Olga Boukrina's five-year grant funds research on neurobehavioral reading intervention with potential to promote post-stroke plasticity. The study aims to develop an fMRI neurofeedback-based approach to improve reading recovery in stroke survivors.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have developed a new method to identify which human gut microbes contribute to inflammatory diseases. By analyzing protein levels in blood serum, the team discovered specific bacteria that trigger immune activation and inflammation.
Researchers tested a core-strengthening program using the AllCore360º to improve trunk function, balance, and mobility after stroke. The study showed promising effects on functional outcomes, including improved lateral control of posture and standardized treatment dosage.
Researchers developed nanometric photodiodes that can bind to nerve cell surfaces and activate them with infrared light, allowing for selective stimulation of individual neurons. This technology has the potential to study the nervous system in-depth and develop targeted therapies for neurological diseases.
A new study published in Nature reveals that microglia cells change their molecular state to match neighboring neurons, influencing neural circuit function. The researchers found that different types of cortical neurons recruit specific numbers of microglia, which then adapt to the neuron's environment.
A new study found that neuronal cilia play a crucial role in ensuring proper signaling of dopamine receptors, which regulate motivated behavior and movement. Mice lacking functional cilia on dopamine receptor 1-expressing neurons became obese and sedentary, highlighting the importance of cilia in dopamine-dependent neural signaling.
Researchers at Okayama University discovered EPA's molecular target, which blocks purinergic chemical transmission and reduces pain perception. The study suggests EPA can be used as a therapeutic strategy for managing chronic pain with fewer side effects.
Researchers at KAIST developed a novel fusion protein drug, αAβ-Gas6, which efficiently eliminates amyloid beta (Aβ) without causing inflammatory side effects. The study showed that αAβ-Gas6 promoted the robust uptake of Aβ without inflammation and neurotoxicity.
Newborn neurons in Rett syndrome organoids migrate slowly and erratically compared to non-mutated cells. The study provides new insight into how MECP2 mutations affect brain development, revealing larger ventricles and thinner neural zones.
Scientists have identified two areas of the auditory cortex specialized to recognize human voice sounds without linguistic meaning. These regions help react to sound cues allowing people to identify characteristics of the person speaking, such as gender, age, and height. This discovery sheds light on neurological disorders affecting vo...
A new study found that HIV-1 Tat expression accelerates age-related diseases in male mice by disrupting neuroendocrine function. Researchers discovered that Tat alters steroid hormone levels, leading to anxiety-like behavior, cognitive errors, and reduced grip strength.
A new AI-based dynamic brain imaging technology has been introduced by Carnegie Mellon University, which can map out rapidly changing electrical activity in the brain with high precision and speed. The technology uses deep learning approaches to translate scalp EEG signals back to neural circuit activity without human intervention.
DNA recombinations of specific genomic sequences are found in both normal and diseased states, challenging the idea of a single genetic code. The study identified millions of mutations caused by recombination of repeated sequences Alu and L1, which may contribute to cancer and other genetic disorders.
Researchers found that transcranial brain stimulation can improve accuracy and speed in older adults, facilitating the emergence of efficient motor chunks. The study suggests that this non-invasive technique may restore motor skill acquisition in individuals with diminished learning mechanisms.
A new study from Regenstrief Institute reveals that two-thirds of stroke patients screening positive for depression received no mental health treatment. The gap persists despite changing attitudes toward mental health treatment, with disparities seen in older patients, men, and minority groups.
Researchers have created a new mouse model that mimics brain damage caused by severe RVFV infection, enabling the study of disease mechanisms and high-throughput testing of next-generation drugs. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing therapies and vaccines for this devastating virus.
A review of over 200 publications suggests that fish perceive quantities using similar brain regions as mammals and birds. This finding could lead to the development of new treatments for human diseases affecting math skills, such as developmental dyscalculia.
Researchers from Rice University, Duke University, Brown University and Baylor College of Medicine developed a magnetic technology to wirelessly control neural circuits in fruit flies. They used genetic engineering to express heat-sensitive ion channels in neurons that control the behavior, and iron nanoparticles to activate the channels.
Inhibitory and excitatory neuronal circuits develop through different processes, with inhibitory neurons requiring visual experience to form mature functional maps. This discovery sheds light on the importance of continued study of inhibitory neural development and its connection to neurodevelopmental disorders.
Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered a molecular pathway by which stress affects lupus, revealing a potential target for treatment. The study found that sleep deprivation caused the activation of microglial cells in the brain, leading to increased levels of IL12 and IL23, a diagnostic marker for neuropsychiatric SLE.