Research on diseases of the nervous system. Covers mitochondrial protection, macrophage replacement, Parkinson's costs, and brain-injury recovery.
Researchers found that domesticated Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Asia, Africa, and the Americas are more susceptible to acquiring Zika virus than their African counterparts. Genetic differences on chromosome 2 are believed to be the cause of this increased susceptibility.
The new issue of NeuroRehabilitation focuses on the challenges of classifying, assessing, and treating neurogenic pain disorders. Experts describe the latest advancements in neurogenic classification and pain management, including new treatment options for peripheral neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome, and craniofacial ne...
Researchers used a technique called Patch-seq to capture data from over 4,200 mouse neurons, classifying them into 28 different types based on their morphology, electrical properties, and gene expression profiles. This new categorization lays the groundwork for a more complete understanding of the mammalian brain.
Reelin signaling suppresses OPC proliferation both in vitro and in vivo, regulating their radial distribution in the late embryonic mouse neocortex. The regulation of Reelin function by proteolysis is crucial for normal OPC development.
Researchers identified Nrp1 as a novel Reelin receptor, essential for superficial-layer neuron dendrite development in the mouse neocortex. The Reelin-Nrp1 interaction regulates apical dendrite formation, suggesting a new mechanism for normal network establishment.
Researchers at the University of Maryland are developing an ingestible capsule that can monitor and model gut microbiome serotonin activity. The platform provides access to the specific site of serotonin production, allowing for real-time processing and neurological effects assessment.
The project aims to employ people formerly injected drugs and provide a robust recovery ecosystem by aiding recovery and physical health, with state-certified peer navigator/recovery coaches at the forefront. The goal is to create a comprehensive and sustainable approach to support those in recovery.
Researchers found that AI techniques are being used to process information about brain structure and connectivity, assess surgical candidacy, and predict disease trajectory. However, they emphasize the need for explainable algorithms to ensure trust in algorithmic prescriptions or diagnoses.
Laminin plays a crucial role in regulating interactions between migrating neural crest cells and the extracellular matrix. The study found that alterations in LAMR expression contribute to neural crest cell migration failure in Hirschsprung disease, leading to colonization of the distal colon when YIGSR is applied.
A Penn State College of Medicine researcher is leading a three-year project to create an atlas of developing mice brains using computational tools and high-resolution imaging. The goal is to better understand brain development and identify key cells that may contribute to disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Researchers analyzed focus groups with individuals who experienced post-exertional malaise (PEM), a key feature of ME/CFS. PEM symptoms included exhaustion, cognitive difficulties, and neuromuscular complaints, affecting daily life and requiring complete rest to reduce symptoms.
The Rice University project aims to optimize the use of flexible nanoelectronic thread (NET) probes to record neuronal activity in different brain regions. The biocompatible probes can be implanted in various areas of the brain, enabling researchers to analyze complex patterns of neural dynamics over time.
Researchers found abnormalities in brain function related to symptom severity in both disorders, with more severe symptoms linked to distinct patterns of activity and connectivity. The study suggests that addressing these brain abnormalities through psychotherapy or psychiatric medications could be key to treating these conditions.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School have been awarded a $6.6 million grant to develop a novel neuromodulation device for treating mental health disorders by synchronizing brain waves and reducing energy consumption.
Rats' brain activity shows that individual preferences for alcohol vary based on how the brain interprets it as a reward. The orbitofrontal cortex stores reward value and regulates reward seeking, with malfunctioning linked to drug use disorders.
A recent study has identified the precise spot in the brain where distracting stimuli are blocked, allowing concentration on a task. The researchers found that responses to distractor stimuli were abruptly suppressed beyond the sensory cortex, preventing further signal transmission within the cortex and triggering a motor response.
A global review of COVID-19 cases found neurological complications such as strokes, delirium, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The study analyzed data from over 900 patients and highlights the need for doctors to recognize COVID-19's potential to cause devastating brain problems.
Researchers identified shared brain structural elements across major psychiatric disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The study also revealed distinct regional abnormalities for individual conditions, suggesting potential mechanisms underlying these disorders.
The study identified fluctuations in brain network connectivity during cravings, particularly between reward-related regions such as the central executive network and the nucleus accumbens. These dynamic patterns are associated with cannabis use disorder severity and can be used as biomarkers for treatment strategies.
Researchers found abnormal growth and increased neuroinflammation in the brains of animals exposed to air pollution, suggesting a potential risk for changes in developing brain relevant to neurodevelopmental disorders. The study used rodent models to mimic real-time exposure to traffic-related air pollution.
Researchers found that neurons in a specific brain region can switch between reference frames depending on the task, allowing for more efficient information transfer. This flexibility could be used in neural prosthetics and therapies to treat brain disorders.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh discovered that synapse type shifts with age in unique patterns across different brain areas. This shift helps explain why genes cause synapse damage at set ages and in set brain areas.
The Center for Alcohol Research in Epigenetics at UIC is continuing its research on the epigenetic mechanisms of alcohol abuse disorders. Researchers will use animal models and human postmortem brain tissue to examine how epigenetic changes mediate withdrawal symptoms and promote increased drinking.
A new study found patients with cavernous angioma have distinct gut microbiomes compared to healthy individuals. The imbalance of bacteria produces lipopolysaccharide molecules that cause brain lesions.
Probiotic intervention has been found to have a positive impact on neurologic manifestations of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including depression and cognitive impairments. Regular intake of probiotic bacteria has been shown to improve gut health and strengthen the brain-gut axis.
Researchers at NIH found that a single amino acid change in the NLGN4 gene can drive the difference in male and female cases of autism. The study suggests that this mutation may result in autism-related symptoms, including intellectual deficits, due to the inability of the Y-chromosome version of the protein to compensate.
A genetic study by the University of Trento identified a crucial molecule (Wnt inhibitory factor 1, Wif1) in the correct composition of habenula neurons and their connectivity. This discovery may provide new insights into the causes of neurological disorders like autism.
Purdue University researcher Alexander Chubykin is working on developing new biomarkers to diagnose autism and schizophrenia. He believes understanding how the brain predicts future events can help individuals with these disorders better navigate their environments and manage sensory overload.
The research team identified Abl1 gene as a key player in the development of inhibitory neurons and sensory circuits. Inhibiting Abl1 expression led to structural defects in brain development, causing hypersensitivity and sensory-related side effects.
Research at Massachusetts General Hospital examines brains of individuals with early-life trauma and functional neurological disorder, finding correlations between childhood abuse severity and altered brain connectivity. The study's findings may provide new insights into the plastic brain mechanisms underlying FND.
A recent study reveals that migraine patients exhibit altered tactile sensation, particularly a decreased perception of pleasure in gentle touch. The research suggests that this disturbance may be related to the same neurophysiological processes underlying allodynia, a common symptom of migraine.
Researchers found a strong association between gum disease and large artery strokes, as well as severe brain blood vessel blockages. Gum disease may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by hardening of blood vessels.
A preclinical trial found that retinoid X receptor (RXR) enhances the clearance of dead cells and debris in the brain after a stroke, limiting inflammation and improving recovery. RXR activation could lead to discovery of a promising new therapeutic target for improving neurological outcomes.
A team of scientists led by Prof. Dr. Christian Schachtrup found that fibrinogen inhibits the neuronal differentiation of NSPCs, leading to increased astrocyte formation and reduced scars. By reducing fibrinogen levels, they were able to block astrocyte formation from NSPCs.
A new study published in Nature found that widely used cerebral organoids are 'confused' and 'disorganized' compared to the developing human brain. The researchers measured gene expression in over 235,000 cells from 37 different organoids and compared it to normal brain tissue, revealing a lack of development into distinctive cell type...
A new UMass Amherst study found that military members with serious brain injuries are at a greater risk of experiencing mental health disorders, including PTSD, anxiety, and mood disorders. The research suggests that critically injured soldiers with severe TBI have particularly high rates of these conditions.
Brain region-specific organoids reveal transcriptional signatures of neuropsychiatric disorders and allow researchers to study chromatin accessibility and gene expression in specific cells over critical developmental stages. The development of the human forebrain is a complex process guided by epigenetic gene regulation.
A special issue of Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience reports remarkable progress in treating conditions of partial blindness. Research explores various aspects of vision loss due to diseases like glaucoma or optic neuropathy, with a focus on stop-cell death and induce regeneration to restore vision.
Researchers develop new framework to understand changes in brain activity and connections, with implications for modeling brain disease mechanisms. The study identifies three categories of dynamic interaction between neurons involved in cognitive function.
A new study found that prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers, a type of flame retardant, may increase the risk of reading problems in children. The study suggests that these chemicals can alter brain processes involved in reading, leading to a less efficient reading network.
A new case series provides insights into Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD), a rare condition characterized by recurring, unwanted sexual arousal. Neurological evaluation and treatment have been found to be effective in managing symptoms.
A Pitt engineer has received a $1.6M NIH award to develop a wireless neural device for precise and long-term stimulation of specific neurons. The proposed technology uses photostimulation to activate neurons with great precision, minimizing tissue damage and improving spatial selectivity.
Research by Rutgers University found that families caring for children with autism spectrum disorder experience high levels of emotional burnout, social isolation, and financial strain. Families with more than one caregiver tend to fare better in terms of emotional well-being.
A study found that cluster headache attacks exhibit a dynamic circadian and seasonal pattern, with changes in the attack timing throughout the disease course. Patients with more lifetime bouts showed a less variable pattern compared to those without circadian rhythmicity.
Researchers at Santa Clara University identified a specific brain pathway that helps regulate drinking behavior, which may be disrupted in individuals with alcohol use disorder. The study suggests that this pathway's dysfunction could contribute to the development of compulsive drinking habits.
A new study estimates heritability and maps relationships among thousands of diseases using electronic health record data. Disease prevalence curves show early onset vs late onset patterns, revealing genetic links between diseases. The team identifies new patterns, including parasitic infections aligning with noninfectious diseases.
A large study of 799 people found that methamphetamine use was associated with more than twice the risk for dropping out of treatment for opioid-use disorder. Meth users often experience challenges in daily life, including homelessness and difficulty saying no to drug dealers.
A new study reveals that scarring in the brain's white matter can affect not only the surrounding areas but also distant parts of the brain. Research by Asta Håberg found that smoking and high blood pressure increase the risk of developing these scars, which can lead to a higher risk of dementia and stroke.
Researchers discovered disruptions in white matter fibers within specific pathways linked to patient-reported impairments in physical health and illness duration. The findings advance current understanding of FND mechanisms and may identify biomarkers for diagnosis and clinical outcomes.
Scientists at Case Western Reserve University have identified a critical role for the Cullin 3 gene in brain development, contributing to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and schizophrenia. The discovery sheds light on the mechanisms underlying these complex conditions, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
A neural circuit in the brains of mice controls the development of compulsive drinking disorders, identified by a biomarker that could become a target for alcohol use disorder therapies. Effective treatments are needed, and this finding offers an extremely promising step forward.
A 15-year study found that peripheral arterial disease patients may not be prescribed life-saving statins at the same rate as other atherosclerotic conditions. Statin prescription rates have increased over time, leading to improved patient outcomes, but a significant treatment gap remains.
A large-scale study found that people with autism spectrum disorder have less brain asymmetry, particularly in cortical thickness. The findings suggest altered development of the brain's left-right axis is involved in autism, affecting widespread brain regions.
A study found that youth with psychosis spectrum disorders exhibit surface area reductions in key brain regions, including orbitofrontal, cingulate, precentral, and postcentral areas. These changes are not seen in typically developing youth or those with bipolar spectrum disorders.
Two new studies found that Gulf War Illness (GWI) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are distinct disorders with unique effects on the brain. GWI was associated with decreased activation in the cerebellum, while CFS had increased activation in this region after exercise.
A study of postmortem brain tissue found increased expression of IL-18 and IL-37 in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), suggesting these cytokines may inhibit microglia-driven inflammation and represent a potential therapeutic candidate for ASD.
Research reveals distinct growth trajectories for amygdala and hippocampus between males and females, shedding light on sex-based differences in mental health disorders. The study suggests that these differences may contribute to the varying risk profiles of males and females during adolescence.
The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has awarded a grant to Sydney-based company Kinoxis Therapeutics to develop a potential treatment for opioid withdrawal. KNX100, a small molecule therapeutic drug candidate, is being developed to treat opioid-use disorder and other substance use disorders.
A study of 69 individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) reveals that conflict-related brain activity in 36 regions predicts successful exposure-based psychotherapy. The findings provide new insights into the neural mechanisms underlying OCD and support a tailored treatment strategy.
Scientists at Ohio State University have developed a tool to measure protein behavior at slower speeds than previously possible, allowing researchers to ask deeper questions about protein function and behavior. The discovery could lead to a better understanding of how proteins regulate cellular processes and interact with other molecules.