Neurology

New paper outlines roadmap for next generation of brain-computer interfaces designed to treat cognitive disorders

A new review proposes a roadmap for developing cognitive brain-computer interfaces to treat cognitive disorders, integrating BCI research and clinical neuromodulation. The emerging field aims to detect dysfunctional brain states and respond with adaptive neurostimulation.

Researchers explain differences in brain tissue vulnerability in neurological disease

New evidence explains why certain parts of the brain are more vulnerable to neurodegenerative diseases. The study suggests that directing therapies to specific protein forms can lead to improved treatment outcomes. Researchers found that subtle differences in protein abundance and complexes assemble determine regional vulnerability.

Road traffic noise, noise difference between residential facades, and risk of Parkinson disease

Long-term exposure to road traffic noise was associated with a higher risk of Parkinson's disease, according to the study. Having a quiet facade mitigated this association, suggesting that reducing noise levels may be a viable strategy for preventing or managing the condition.

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal reports novel surgical approach for refractory MS-related trigeminal neuralgia

A novel salvage surgical approach combining internal neurolysis and targeted glycerol injection has provided durable pain relief for a patient with severe, treatment-resistant MS-TN. The procedure was successful in preserving sensation and reducing medication use.

Brain signal linked to communication challenges in autism

Researchers found subtle patterns in brain activity while children listened to speech linked to verbal communication abilities in autistic youths. Altered brain signals suggested the brain may process speech less efficiently, with noisier signals associated with lower scores on everyday verbal communication.

Joint human-machine learning improves noninvasive BCI outcomes

Researchers developed a hybrid technology combining human learning and machine learning in noninvasive BCIs, producing rapid and sustained gains in motor imagery control. The study demonstrates significant scientific and technological advancement in BCIs, establishing a scalable pathway toward robust neural interfaces.

Among Black people in the U.S., country of birth associated with stroke risk

A recent study published in Neurology found that Black individuals born outside the US have a significantly lower risk of stroke compared to those born in the US. The study, which analyzed data from over 64,000 adults, also found that immigrants who arrived within 15 years of the survey had a 73% lower odds of stroke.

Neurological manifestations of hantavirus infection

Researchers investigated hantavirus infection's neurological effects, finding that they can be severe and uncommon. The study aims to improve understanding of the pathophysiology, identify therapeutic targets, and develop management guidelines for these manifestations.

New UC Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research to advance dementia research, treatment and education

The University of Cincinnati launches the Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research (CANDR) to improve dementia prevention and treatment outcomes. CANDR aligns with UC's mission to innovate and engage locally while addressing one of the region's most pressing public health challenges.

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal highlights robot-guided approach for complex brain abscesses

A team of surgeons used robot-assisted stereotactic surgery to treat a patient with multiple deep brain abscesses, achieving complete resolution and rapid neurological recovery. The minimally invasive strategy reduced surgical trauma and accelerated healing.

Dementia risk may also be reduced through diet

A review of hundreds of studies suggests that polyphenol-rich foods like berries, tea, and olive oil may support healthy brain aging by reducing inflammation and promoting nerve cell function. While no single food can prevent Alzheimer's disease, a balanced diet rich in plant-based foods may help preserve cognitive function over time.

Peer-reviewed study confirms CVI range is a valid, reliable tool for assessing cortical visual impairment in children

A new study published in Ophthalmology Science has confirmed that The CVI Range Assessment is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating functional vision in children with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). This finding provides evidence that the widely used assessment meets rigorous clinical and psychometric standards, offering a s...

Sustaining the brain’s spontaneous repair system for stroke recovery

Researchers identified ZFP384 as a key factor in diminishing microglial reparative functions after stroke. By blocking ZFP384, the study found that microglia retained their reparative properties, leading to enhanced remyelination and synaptic plasticity, and improved long-term neurological function.

Dementia costs high-income European countries over €221 billion a year, with families carrying much of the burden

A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease estimates that dementia-related costs across 30 high-income European countries total €221 billion annually. Family caregivers carry a significant portion of this burden, providing an estimated €128 billion in unpaid care.

Dementia rising across Latino populations, multidecade study finds

A multidecade study found dementia prevalence significantly increased in Mexico, Peru and Puerto Rico from 9.6% to 14.5%, 7.6% to 11.7% and 10.7% to 15.7%, respectively over two decades. Dementia rates remained stable in Cuba and Dominican Republic.

Long-term clinical data advance stem cell research for chronic stroke recovery presented today at ISSCR 2026 in Montréal, Canada

Researchers present new insights into an iPSC-derived neural progenitor cell therapy for chronic ischemic stroke, demonstrating safety and biological activity over extended follow-up. The findings have the potential to expand treatment options for patients living with chronic stroke disability.

Brain network disorders study reveals astrocyte shifts linked to mood disorders

A recent study reveals that astrocyte subtype dynamics play a crucial role in regulating mental health, particularly in mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The review highlights how inflammatory signaling, metabolic imbalance, and ion channel dysfunction contribute to disease progression.

STEM-PD announces first in-human clinical trial results for Parkinson's disease cell therapy

A landmark study has shown that transplanting stem-cell derived dopamine progenitor cells into the brain is feasible and safe. Eight patients received the transplanted cell product, with no serious side effects observed during the first year of follow-up.

New clinical data presented at ISSCR 2026 Advance Stem Cell-Based Cell Therapy for Parkinson's Disease

The STEM-PD trial demonstrated the safety and feasibility of stem cell-derived dopaminergic cell transplantation in patients with moderate to advanced Parkinson's disease. The findings mark an important step in evaluating this approach as a potential treatment strategy for neurodegenerative diseases.

Decline in work productivity found 15 years before early-onset dementia diagnosis

A study found people with early-onset dementia experienced reduced work productivity up to 15 years before diagnosis, with average losses of $86,000 per person. The study also revealed varying productivity losses depending on the type of dementia, highlighting a need for interventions to prevent or delay decline.

When alcohol meets Alzheimer’s: New study reveals an unexpected interaction in the brain

Research suggests alcohol interacts with Alzheimer's-related brain circuits in distinct ways, depending on the type of pathological change. Alcohol reduced communication in amyloid-beta models but increased it in tau models, highlighting an important principle in biology.

ECNP reports rising journal citations reflects increasing interest in biological basis of mental health

Two ECNP-affiliated journals, European Neuropsychopharmacology and Neuroscience Applied, have seen significant increases in citation rates. The rise reflects growing interest in the biological underpinnings of mental health, as reflected in the journal's focus on precision psychiatry.

Could an investigational drug that targets DNA damage help treat Alzheimer’s disease?

Researchers found that KCL-286 enhances DNA repair and reduces neuronal inflammation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The drug activates the retinoic acid receptor-beta pathway, promoting the expression of certain repair genes.

Why does Parkinson’s disease affect more men than women?

Research found that Parkinson's disease triggers shared 'stress responses' but also differs between men and women at the cellular level, particularly in how glial cells manage energy and protect nerve connections. This discovery may lead to more personalized treatments for patients.

EV-SELEX: A novel platform for rapid G protein-coupled receptor drug discovery

A new aptamer selection strategy termed extracellular vesicle (EV)-SELEX has been developed to rapidly identify highly specific DNA aptamers targeting G protein-coupled receptors. The EV-SELEX platform exploits a natural cellular process to minimize interference and efficiently select biologically relevant receptor conformations.

First-of-its-kind cell therapy clinical trial led by Children’s National shows promising long-term survival in children with aggressive brain tumors

A Phase I trial evaluated a novel multi-targeted T-cell therapy for children with deadly brain tumors, offering early evidence that the patient's own immune cells can reach and fight tumors while producing fewer severe side effects. The study suggests a safer and more effective approach for pediatric brain cancers.

Extreme temperatures increase emergency department visits among people with dementia, study finds

Research suggests exposure to extreme heat and cold increases risk of emergency department visits among people with dementia. Extreme temperatures accelerate health events that would otherwise occur later, potentially leading to increased healthcare demand.

Women with Parkinson's disease may show more Alzheimer’s-related brain changes than men

Research presented at the European Academy of Neurology Congress 2026 found that women with Parkinson's disease had significantly greater amyloid plaque burden and neuritic plaque density compared to men. The study suggests that women may be more susceptible to Alzheimer's-related changes in the brain.

13-second eye test may help predict recovery of consciousness after severe brain injury

A simple bedside eye test may predict recovery of consciousness in patients with severe brain injuries, according to new research. The late light-off response (LOR) phase of the pupil response predicted improvements in consciousness seven days later.

Multiple sclerosis impacts daily life far beyond its physical symptoms, new study finds

A new study finds that multiple sclerosis has a substantial impact on social life and work, with 51% of people reporting an effect. The study highlights the need for comprehensive care addressing not only physical health but also daily functioning, employment, and overall wellbeing.

A specialized procedure at Semmelweis University saves a young woman’s ability to walk

A young woman's quality of life and ability to walk were restored after a specialized procedure at Semmelweis University. The laparoscopic removal of a rare, benign tumor of neurological origin in the lesser pelvis, known as a schwannoma, was performed using intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring.

Diet quality and dementia risk in older adults with Alzheimer pathology

A cohort study found that a dietary pattern with lower inflammatory potential was associated with lower dementia risk among individuals with Alzheimer disease pathology. Targeted dietary strategies may help prevent dementia in those already at elevated risk.

Shorter strides can be an early warning sign of dementia in senior dogs, just as in people

A new study has found that changes in a senior dog's gait can be an early warning sign of dementia. The research tracked the stride length of 88 geriatric dogs over time, revealing a significant decrease in front leg stride length with worsening cognitive decline. This change was found to be more pronounced than age-related decline alone.

Continuum® announces new editor-in-chief

American Academy of Neurology appoints A. Gordon Smith as the fifth editor-in-chief of Continuum, a leading continuing medical education journal in neurology. Smith aims to ensure educational innovation and make Continuum an essential resource for the entire neurology care community.

How zebrafish might be key to unlocking treatments for CADASIL

Researchers developed zebrafish model that reproduces key features of CADASIL, a hereditary disease causing brain damage and recurrent strokes. The study found progressive decline in cerebral blood flow and impaired learning ability, similar to human patients.

Genetic testing projected to increase ALS clinic visits over next decade

A new study predicts that genetic testing for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) will lead to a significant increase in clinic visits to specialized ALS centers over the next decade. The study estimates that 2,704 people in the US will have a gene-related form of ALS and 10,944 gene carriers by 2026.

The enemy within: How the immune system worsens brain injury outcomes

Researchers at UC Riverside link immune signaling to disrupted brain function and cognition after concussion, finding a crucial link between TLR4 and MMP-9. Blocking these pathways may limit changes in brain circuits and improve long-term neurological outcomes.

JMIR Publications’ JMIR Neurotechnology invites Submissions on the Responsible and Ethical Use of Neurotechnology

The new section in JMIR Neurotechnology focuses on the responsible and ethical use of neurotechnology. Submissions welcome for original research, case series, theoretical viewpoints, and data-driven analyses on ethics and policy in neurotechnology.

Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine researcher awarded up to $17.25 million to join an international autism research collaborative

Baylor College of Medicine researcher Dr. Jimmy Holder and his team will join the ARIA IMPACT Network to accelerate clinical trial readiness and implementation for promising therapies on autism. The collaboration aims to better understand how autism develops and changes over time in children with profound autism.

Understanding how brain aneurysms form may help predict ruptures

Researchers have made major steps toward solving the mystery of how brain aneurysms form by identifying key cell types and genetic pathways involved. The study's findings provide new insights into a clinical paradox: smaller aneurysms can still rupture, and offer opportunities for early intervention to prevent ruptures.

High blood pressure associated with lower risk of dementia in frail people

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that high blood pressure may be associated with a lower risk of dementia in people with physical frailty. Researchers compared data from over 6,000 participants and found that those with signs of frailty and elevated blood pressure were 32% less likely to develop dementia.

Fewer than 1 in 4 with stroke, 1 in 7 with brain injury receive inpatient rehab

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that fewer than one in four people with stroke and one in seven with traumatic brain injury receive inpatient rehabilitation care after hospitalization. The disparities were particularly pronounced across sex, race, insurance coverage, and income level.

Wiley launches Advanced Brain to push disciplinary boundaries across neuroscience and related fields

Advanced Brain is an open access journal dedicated to publishing cutting-edge research across the brain-mind continuum. The journal aims to foster dialogue across life, medical, and behavioral sciences to accelerate fundamental and applied understanding of the human brain.

Video game stroke rehab restores arm movement in chronic stroke survivors

A new study from Northwestern University developed a customized video game to help chronic stroke survivors regain lost arm function. After six weeks of therapy, participants showed significant improvement in arm function and daily activities, with scores improving up to 7.8 times that of the control group.

Living in rural areas associated with worse health for people with epilepsy

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with epilepsy living in rural areas had poorer health outcomes, including higher mortality rates, longer hospital stays, and reduced access to specialized care. The study highlights the need for improved access to epilepsy care in rural areas.

New reference map of the brain may transform how scientists detect disease

Researchers developed a new reference model for the human brain using diffusion MRI scans from over 54,000 people. The model provides growth charts for white matter neural pathways, helping identify subtle changes linked to aging, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia risk and other neurological conditions.

Neuropixels Opto sheds new light on deepest regions of the brain

Researchers have developed a new device called Neuropixels Opto that can record and manipulate neuron activity in the brain. The device, published in Nature Methods, integrates electrophysiology and optogenetics to provide unprecedented insight into neural circuits and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.

CRISPR gene editing model implicates dysfunctional collagen in tiny hemorrhages in brain

A groundbreaking study created a world's first pure cerebral microbleed model by targeting brain vascular collagen IV using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing. The research implicated dysfunctional collagen in tiny brain hemorrhages, which are strongly associated with dementia and cognitive decline.

Signals from the deep: Brain rhythms distinguish states of consciousness

Neuropsychology researchers have identified a unique brain rhythm in the thalamus that distinguishes between different states of consciousness. The discovery, published in Nature Human Behaviour, reveals a rapid oscillation pattern in the frequency range of 20 to 45 Hertz exclusively during waking hours and REM sleep.

Lab-grown brain-spinal cord model shows ‘irreversible’ nerve damage may be reversed

Scientists have created a miniature circuit that mimics the brain and spinal cord connection, showing that previously thought irreversible nerve damage can be reversed. The researchers found that blocking specific genes in mature neurons restored axon regrowth ability.

THE LANCET: Three papers publishing in a special issue on neurology

A blood test can identify signs of Alzheimer's Disease decades before symptoms appear, suggesting early detection and potential treatment. A new brain imaging test also detects Alzheimer's Disease biomarkers earlier than the current standard, improving diagnosis and treatment options.

Virtual-reality path integration for predicting risk of neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers found that impaired virtual reality path integration was closely tied to brain structure and biomarkers associated with neurodegeneration. This suggests that VR-based navigation errors may reveal hidden changes in the brain long before symptoms arise, making it a promising behavioral marker for preclinical Alzheimer's disease.

Blood proteins flag multiple sclerosis years before diagnosis, opening a window for prevention

A new study has identified a group of blood proteins that can flag multiple sclerosis risk years before diagnosis. Researchers found that these proteins are altered in people who develop MS, potentially leading to early intervention and prevention.

Efficacy and safety of ecopipam for Tourette syndrome

A new study published in JAMA Neurology finds ecopipam to be effective in suppressing tics in patients with Tourette syndrome. The medication was well-tolerated and showed no significant adverse effects over a period of up to 24 weeks.

Plasma eMTBR-tau243 and %p-tau217 for biological staging of Alzheimer disease

A plasma-based staging model using eMTBR-tau243 and %p-tau217 demonstrated strong concordance with positron emission tomography-based staging and clinical severity of Alzheimer disease. This approach may provide a scalable, minimally invasive method for biological stratification and treatment selection.

Discovery shows how cancer takes hold as cells divide

Researchers have discovered that errors in the final step of cell division can cause dramatic changes in developing brain cells, leading to abnormalities such as multiple nuclei and cilia. The study found that a protein called p53 acts as a guardian of brain development by triggering the self-destruction of abnormal cells.

Chinese Neurosurgical Journal article finds that flow diversion devices are exceptionally safe

A long-term study of patients treated with flow diversion devices (FDDs) for intracranial aneurysms revealed excellent safety profiles, with no significant differences in outcomes between various FDD platforms. The study found that multiple FDDs were associated with a higher risk of insufficient closure and delayed complications.

New drug target identified for Fragile X syndrome

Scientists have identified a new drug target for treating Fragile X syndrome by blocking the EPAC2 brain protein, which improves abnormal brain activity and behavioral symptoms. The study uses genetically engineered mice to simulate the condition and finds that EPAC2 levels rise gradually as the brain matures.

Amateur soccer heading and acute elevations in blood-based p-Tau217 and S100B

A case-control study found that amateur-level soccer heading is associated with increased blood biomarkers of neural damage, including dose-response relationships. The findings suggest that even low-impact heading may acutely affect neural integrity.

UCLA to lead $9M study on pesticides’, air pollutants’ link to Parkinson’s disease risk