Articles tagged with Neurological Disorders
Recent studies shed light on how brain structure, genes, and chemicals interact to affect behavior in individuals with autism and fragile X syndrome. The research findings offer new tools for understanding these conditions, paving the way for effective education, early intervention, and potential treatments.
Studies show how brain structure, genes, and chemicals interact to affect behavior in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. New findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for conditions like fragile X syndrome and bipolar disorder.
Researchers at Uppsala University have examined the mechanism of gene transcription and found that genes active in the brain are transcribed with a special mechanism. During fetal development, there is a larger proportion of RNA molecules containing introns compared to fully developed brains.
Researchers created databases showing how genes turn on and off in multiple brain regions through development, revealing a 'consistent molecular architecture' across individuals. Key findings include individual genetic variations linked to expression patterns, with most genes reversing their direction of expression after birth.
Research from the University of California - San Diego School of Medicine found that people with prehypertension have a 55% higher risk of experiencing a future stroke than those without. The study analyzed 12 prospective cohort studies involving over 518,000 participants and found that even high-but-normal blood pressure elevates stro...
Researchers have found that brain wiring continues to develop well into our 20s, with structural changes in the white matter being detected in healthy adults using magnetic resonance imaging. This challenges the long-held belief that brain development stops at adolescence.
Researchers have discovered that Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by a 'disinhibited' brain, with increased excitability in both the affected and unaffected hands. The study found altered sensory perception in CRPS patients, indicating a complex role of changes in the central nervous system.
Research shows people with PTSD struggle to identify specific emotions, such as fear and sadness, from facial cues. The study found that war veterans with PTSD were less able to recognize these emotions compared to healthy subjects.
Scientists at the Weizmann Institute of Science have identified a biological sign of autism in very young toddlers by scanning their brain activity while sleeping. The study found that autistic brains exhibited weaker synchronization between brain areas tied to language and communication compared to non-autistic children.
A team of scientists has uncovered a novel mechanism regulating gene expression and transcription linked to Spinocerebellar ataxia 7, an inherited neurological disorder. Non-coding RNA plays key role in neurological development and function.
New imaging tools and techniques are advancing our understanding of brain structure and function, particularly in relation to neurological disorders. These breakthroughs are contributing to insights into healthy brain development and adult life, as well as the complex networks that link brain activity.
A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that residents of the Stroke Belt, a southern region of the US, have a higher incidence of cognitive decline than other regions. The research team believes shared risk factors are to blame and suggests investigating regional patterns contributing to modifiable risk factors.
Scientists uncover a highly conserved dual mechanism that regulates both brain development and function across diverse species. The discovery could lead to biomarkers for neurological diseases and potentially cure them with microRNA therapeutics.
An international team identified a genetic mutation responsible for a hereditary neurological disorder affecting members of a Palestinian family. The researchers used a combination of genome sequencing technology and disease-network analysis to pinpoint the causative mutation, which is found in approximately 1 in 200 Palestinians.
Researchers found that autistic brains concentrate more activity in temporal and occipital regions, which are involved in pattern recognition and object perception. This enables them to perform well in visual tasks that require reasoning and decision-making.
Mouse brains compensate for disrupted neural functioning by enabling existing neurons to be more active and increasing their lifespan. The findings provide new insight into the brain's plasticity and its ability to reroute neural functioning.
University of South Florida researchers have found that the blood-brain barrier is structurally and functionally damaged in mice with Sanfilippo syndrome type B. This damage may lead to destruction of the central nervous system equilibrium and accelerate neuropathological changes in the disease.
A gene mutation linked to schizophrenia has been identified and shows potential for treating the brain disorder with existing compounds. The mutation impacts a neuropeptide receptor VIPR2, which plays a crucial role in brain development and behavior.
Researchers at Stanford have developed a new method that allows them to examine the deep brain's neurons for months, enabling studies on diseases like dementia and cancer. The technique uses tiny glass tubes with microendoscopes to monitor individual cells over prolonged periods.
Harvard and University of Utah researchers have developed a biologically based test for autism, detecting high-functioning autism with 94 percent accuracy. The test uses MRI to measure deviations in brain circuitry, revealing insights into the biological basis of autism and potential improvements in management and treatments.
Researchers found that magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) can help diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disorder caused by repetitive head trauma. The study revealed altered levels of neurochemicals in the brains of former athletes with suspected CTE, suggesting a potential non-invasive early detection method.
Researchers found a 30-50% difference in glial cells between female and male rats, which affected social behavior. Exposure to cannabis-like compounds normalized the difference in play behavior in female rats.
A National Stroke Association survey reveals that 53% of stroke survivors suffer from pseudobulbar affect (PBA), a condition causing involuntary laughter or crying. PBA symptoms interfere with daily activities and relationships, but few are aware of the condition.
Researchers identified duplicated or missing DNA segments in children with ADHD, suggesting a neurodevelopmental disorder. The study also found overlap between ADHD and autism, suggesting a shared biological basis.
A new study by Saint Louis University researcher Lisa Cannada found that women who give birth after suffering pelvic fractures receive C-sections at more than double normal rates. Women also experience lingering symptoms such as urinary complications and post-traumatic stress disorder after a pelvic fracture injury.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have developed a new method to track brain development in children using functional MRI scans, which may shed light on psychological and developmental disorders. The approach uses mathematical analysis to identify abnormal brain function, enabling early detection and potential treatment.
A team of scientists has created a brain atlas that maps the connections between different parts of the human brain. This atlas will help researchers better understand disorders such as autism and schizophrenia, which are believed to be caused by abnormal connections among different regions within the brain.
Researchers used whole exome sequencing to discover a single gene at the root of several types of childhood brain disorders, including malformations of cortical development. The study found six unique mutations in the WDR62 gene among 30 families, highlighting its crucial role in human cortical brain development.
Research shows that IBS is associated with both decreases and increases in grey matter density in key brain areas involved in attention, emotion regulation, and pain inhibition. These findings suggest a 'brain-gut disorder' component and move beyond the traditional view of IBS as a functional syndrome.
Research reveals increased network activity and altered functional connectivity in multiple networks, reflecting the migrainous phenotype. This suggests that migraine is a disorder of the brain, with abnormalities present even outside of attacks.
A recent NIH-led interagency group report highlights 11 key categories of diseases affected by climate change, including respiratory problems, mental health issues, and cardiovascular disease. The report provides a starting point for federal research to better understand the impact of climate change on human health.
The Block by Block project aims to educate residents about diabetes, increase early diagnosis and provide resources to improve medical care and self-management for 13,000 adults. The four-year project includes household screenings, educational programs, and a case management program to help residents with diabetes organize their care.
Researchers at OHSU School of Dentistry have discovered that inflammation boosts the production of a protein involved in pain signaling, which could lead to new treatments for craniofacial pain conditions. The findings provide a crucial understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying trigeminal pain.
Research reveals that individuals with body dysmorphic disorder exhibit abnormal brain activity when viewing images of themselves, suggesting difficulties in perceiving general facial information. This impairment contributes to distorted perceptions of one's appearance, supporting the need for further studies on the condition.
A new study from UC Davis Health System identifies a key protein called SynDIG1 that plays a crucial role in creating and sustaining synapses, essential for learning, memory, and perception. The research fills a major gap in understanding the molecular foundations of higher cognitive abilities and brain disorders.
A study published in The Lancet found that non-battle-related disorders, such as musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders, are the leading cause of medical evacuation from the front line. The study also identified factors associated with return to duty, including senior officer status and non-battle related injuries.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center identified four distinct molecular subtypes of GBM, each associated with a specific disease process. The study provides a solid framework for investigation of future targeted therapies that may improve the prognosis of this devastating cancer.
A five-year study shows enzyme replacement therapy reduces left ventricular mass index by around 10% and improves midwall fractional shortening in patients with baseline cardiac hypertrophy. The treatment also significantly improves average pain and quality of life scores.
A new study found that increased walking and cycling in cities like London and Delhi can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and improve public health more effectively than using lower-emission motor vehicles. The study suggests prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure to create safe urban environments for mass active travel.
The article discusses the need to shift focus from tertiary care services to cost-effective brief interventions for earlier stages of alcohol use disorders. Health systems in low- and middle-income countries currently prioritize treatment, but this approach is often ineffective.
The DFG Research Centre for Renewable Therapies will receive €30 million in funds over the next four years. The centre aims to develop new cellular therapies and treatment options for various diseases, including metabolism diseases, cancers, and immune system disorders.
Chinese dyslexia is characterized by two disorders: visuospatial deficit and phonological disorder, differing from English dyslexia which primarily affects phonological processing
Researchers at the University of Iowa discovered a way to deliver therapeutic molecules directly into brain cells using the blood-brain barrier. They found that unique alterations in the blood vessels surrounding brain cells can target specific diseases, allowing for non-invasive treatment of lysosomal storage diseases.
Researchers suggest that OCD should be classified as a separate disorder due to its symptomatically heterogeneous nature and genetic factors contributing 27-47% of variance. Treatment trials indicate promise for medications like D-cycloserine combined with exposure and response prevention therapy.
Yale scientists have discovered a crucial protein that regulates cell size by controlling the exit of potassium and chloride ions. This finding has significant implications for understanding diseases such as sickle cell anemia and neurological disorders, where cell size imbalances can lead to damage.
Researchers will investigate whether abnormal autonomic nervous system function is the primary cause of painful bladder syndrome, a condition affecting young women with severe bladder pain and disability. The five-year study aims to lead to better understanding of the causes and possible treatments for this condition.
Researchers identify dysfunction in neural circuits of the brain that may contribute to the development of anorexia. Childhood personality traits and perfectionism are also found to be predisposing factors.
The Journal of Injury, Function and Rehabilitation has been accepted for coverage by MEDLINE, six months after its launch. This recognition acknowledges the journal's commitment to raising the scientific bar in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation.
A new study links a history of periodontitis to an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease, particularly ischemic stroke, in men. The study found that periodontal bone loss, not current inflammation, was associated with the incidence of cerebrovascular disease.
Research finds stalled microtubules in cells with faulty dynamin 2 protein, leading to reduced nerve impulse strength and slowed movement. The stable microtubules disrupt normal cellular processes, including the formation of the Golgi complex.
A study found that psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral artery disease. Patients with psoriasis were also more likely to die from these conditions, highlighting the need for vigilance in screening for cardiovascular risk factors.
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory researchers discovered that oligophrenin-1 (OPHN1) is crucial for neural signaling by controlling the recycling of synaptic vesicles. Defective OPHN1 signaling leads to misshapen dendritic spines and loss of synaptic strength, contributing to X-linked mental retardation.
Researchers from the University of Oregon and University of California, Davis, have identified a locking mechanism that allows neurons to form synapses, essential for transmitting information. This discovery sheds light on autism development, a brain disorder affecting social and communication abilities.
A University of Haifa research team has been awarded a European Union grant to investigate the role of synaptic proteins in neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. The project aims to create disease models using deliberate damage to protein function, with potential implications for understanding autism and schizophrenia.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals how a single disrupted gene can cause Angelman syndrome, a form of severe mental retardation. The researchers found that brain cells in mice with the condition lacked ability to strengthen or weaken connections, but that sensory deprivation could recover plasticity.
Researchers have identified a new gene variant associated with autism, found to be highly active in fetal brain regions critical for language and social behavior. The study suggests that this gene variant may contribute to an increased prenatal risk of autism.
Researchers identified genetic factors affecting autism risk, including genes involved in forming and maintaining brain cell connections. These findings may lead to better diagnostic strategies for children with autism.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have developed a universal influenza vaccine that evokes high antibody titers, similar to those found in small animals infected with the disease. The vaccine, known as BIPCV, is well-tolerated and safe, even at low doses.
Scientists have made significant progress in understanding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by examining brain activity in soldiers with and without the condition. The study found that individuals with PTSD exhibit distinct brain patterns, particularly in areas responsible for emotion processing and sense of self.
Spartin localizes to lipid droplets and binds to TIP47, regulating their turnover. Overexpressing or knocking down Spartin causes an increase in LD size and number.