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Chronic pain might impact how the brain processes emotions

A new study found that people with chronic pain have lower levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate emotions, leading to increased negative emotions and impaired emotional regulation. The researchers hope their online emotional recovery program may provide a non-pharmaceutical solution for those affected.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEuropean Journal of Pain·TypeObservational study·DateJul 26, 2021
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Neurotransmitter levels predict math ability

Researchers found that higher GABA levels in young people were associated with greater math fluency, while lower glutamate levels were related to better math skills. In adults, the opposite was true: low GABA concentrations were linked to greater math fluency and high glutamate levels to poorer performance.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJul 22, 2021

A promising new pathway to treating type 2 diabetes

A new pathway to treating type 2 diabetes has been discovered by researchers at the University of Arizona, focusing on the liver's role in insulin sensitivity. The study found that fat in the liver increases the release of GABA, a neurotransmitter that decreases nerve activity.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 29, 2021

Math education and brain development

A study found low GABA levels in adolescents associated with lack of math education, leading to poorer performance on math tests. Math education was linked to increased brain plasticity, suggesting implications for educational policies and access to opportunities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New University of Kentucky research may offer hope for Alzheimer's patients

Researchers at the University of Kentucky have developed a new technology that can simultaneously measure glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain on a second-by-second basis. The study aims to explore the balance of these neurotransmitters in the aging brain and could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·DateJun 4, 2021

How behavioral rhythms are fine-tuned in the brain

A team at Kanazawa University found that vasopressin neurons play a critical role in regulating the timing of output from the molecular clock, which governs circadian behaviors. The study used mice with altered GABA signaling to demonstrate the importance of these neurons in maintaining behavioral rhythms.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 28, 2021

'Animal-stress' signal improves plant drought resilience

A team of Australian and German researchers found that GABA, a molecule associated with relaxation in animals, can control the size of plant leaves' pores to minimize water loss. This helps plants conserve water and survive longer during droughts.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2021

Plants remember drought

Plants recall drought conditions through GABA signalling, affecting leaf pore width for water conservation. This unique mechanism allows drought-tolerant plants to survive longer without water.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

How messenger substances influence individual decision-making

A study published in Nature Communications investigates the impact of messenger substance GABA and glutamate on human decision-making. The researchers found that individuals with a higher ratio of GABA to glutamate in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) made quicker decisions in patch-leaving scenarios, while those with higher ...

SourceHeinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021

Neurotransmitter regulation of circadian rhythms

A study on mice reveals that GABA release from vasopressin-producing neurons regulates the suprachiasmatic nucleus clock and constrains behavioral rhythms to specific time-windows. Gene-based molecular clocks are necessary but insufficient for generating circadian behavior, highlighting the importance of intercellular communication.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2021

Accurate drug dosages with proton traps

Researchers at Linköping University developed a proton trap that reduces protons' impact on drug dosage accuracy. This innovation aims to minimize side effects and increase effectiveness of organic electronic ion pumps in treating neurological diseases.

SourceLinköping University·DateJan 29, 2021

Compounds block stress-enhanced nicotine intake in rats

Researchers discover compounds that activate GABA receptors can reduce nicotine intake in stressed rats, potentially alleviating relapse. The findings suggest novel PAMs could help prevent stress-induced smoking relapse with fewer side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateNov 11, 2020

Star-cells "shine" to make sense of touch

Researchers discovered that astrocytes in the thalamus produce GABA to fine-tune the sense of touch. The production of GABA accelerates signal processing and sharpens sensitivity, allowing neurons to distinguish subtle changes in tactile stimuli.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNeuron·DateSep 8, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A novel therapeutic target for recovery after stroke

Researchers have identified a novel mechanism underlying post-stroke recovery and developed a potential therapeutic approach by inhibiting astrocytic GABA synthesis. Treatment with KDS2010 alleviates cortical diaschisis and improves motor function in animal models, suggesting a new treatment direction for stroke patients.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 7, 2020

Researchers map out intricate processes that activate key brain molecule

Scientists have created a detailed map of the GABAB receptor, revealing its structure and new details of how it moves from inactive to active state. This discovery could help better understand GABA receptors and design better drugs to treat conditions like addiction and psychosis.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 17, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Needing a change? Researchers find GABA is the key to metamorphosis

A team of researchers from the University of Tsukuba investigated the role of various neurotransmitters in regulating metamorphosis using the model sea squirt Ciona intestinalis. They found that GABA is a key regulator of metamorphosis, triggering physical changes associated with maturation.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 31, 2020

Special issue of 'Neurochemical Research' honors Vittorio Gallo, Ph.D.

This special issue of Neurochemical Research honors Vittorio Gallo's groundbreaking research on glutamate neurotransmission, including his development of cerebellar granule cell cultures and biochemical assays. Gallo's work has had a lasting impact on our understanding of neural development and regeneration.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNeurochemical Research·DateMar 19, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A sleeping pill that doesn't make you sway: a new targeted insomnia treatment

A new study published in PNAS found that suvorexant, a recently approved insomnia treatment, has fewer physical side effects compared to commonly prescribed hypnotics. The treatment specifically targets brain receptors involved in wakefulness, reducing impairments in body balance upon awakening.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 22, 2019

'Sticky' gene may help Valium calm nerves

Researchers found that a 'sticky' gene called Shisa7 plays a critical role in regulating inhibitory neural circuits and sedative effects of benzodiazepines. The discovery could lead to more effective treatments for neurological disorders caused by problems with these circuits.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalScience·DateOct 10, 2019
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

The role of GABA neurons in the central circadian clock has been discovered

Researchers discovered GABA neurons play a crucial role in refining circadian output rhythms in mice, ensuring noiseless communication with neurons outside the suprachiasmatic nucleus. This finding could aid the development of new clinical approaches for diseases related to the circadian clock.

SourceNagoya University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateSep 7, 2019

Newly isolated human gut bacterium reveals possible connection to depression

A newly isolated human gut bacterium, Evtepia gabavorous, has been found to have a surprising dependency on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and its metabolism is highly linked to mental health. Research suggests that low abundance of the Bacteroides fragilis bacteria may be associated with elevated brain activity during depression.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 13, 2019

Study finds the circuits that may help you keep your cool

Researchers at MIT's Picower Institute have discovered a neural circuit in the locus coeruleus (LC) that helps moderate brain activity and maintain calm. The circuit involves connections between neurons releasing GABA and noradrenaline, which work together to regulate arousal levels.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 14, 2019
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New key mechanism of epileptic seizures revealed

Researchers identified a key factor leading to epileptic seizures by analyzing changes in the temporal lobe cortex of a rat brain. The study found that excessive excitation of neurons, triggered by calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, increases the risk of convulsive discharges.

SourceAKSON Russian Science Communication Association·JournalFrontiers in Cellular Neuroscience·DateJan 7, 2019

Study finds gaba cells help fight alcoholism

Researchers found that alcohol helps synchronize GABA cells, increasing dopamine release and dependency. The study provides new insights into the mechanism of addiction and could lead to targeted pharmacological treatments.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalEuropean Journal of Neuroscience·DateDec 19, 2018

New insight into aging

Researchers at McGill University found that aging brains retain neuroplasticity but experience dysregulation leading to unstable learning. Increasing GABA levels in older rats prolonged the effects of audio tone exposure, suggesting a potential strategy for improving retention in the aging brain.

SourceMcGill University·JournaleNeuro·DateSep 19, 2018

Perinatal hypoxia associated with long-term cerebellar learning deficits and Purkinje cell misfiring

A study by Children's National Health System researchers found that chronic sublethal hypoxia causes locomotor miscoordination and long-term cerebellar learning deficits. Restoring GABA levels with an off-the-shelf medicine improves Purkinje cell firing and locomotor performance in a model of neonatal brain injury.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 17, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

An ion channel differentiates newborn and mature neurons in the adult brain

Newborn granule cells in the dentate gyrus become less excitable after three weeks, a crucial step for mature functioning. The researchers found that functional GIRK channels start to appear at this stage, controlled by G protein signaling, and contribute to lowering excitability of mature dentate granule cells.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateAug 10, 2018

UCI researchers discover novel mode of neurotransmitter-based communication

Researchers at UCI School of Medicine have discovered a new pathway for developing therapies for disorders like epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain by understanding how GABA modulates specific ion channels. This finding opens up an entirely novel mechanism for GABA to fulfill its inhibitory role in the brain.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 21, 2018

Remake, refill, reuse: Recycling at the synapse revealed

A recent study published in Cell Reports sheds light on the poorly-understood part of vesicle recycling at synapses. The researchers found that refilling vesicles with neurotransmitters like GABA takes longer than reforming them, and this process is crucial for maintaining important brain functions.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 26, 2018
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

An improved anti-addiction medication

Scientists developed a potent new medicine to fight addiction by blocking an enzyme, resulting in higher GABA levels and reduced dopamine release. The new compound, CPP-115, is 10 times more efficient than vigabatrin and has fewer side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 21, 2018

Smartphone addiction creates imbalance in brain

Researchers found a significant increase in GABA levels and disrupted balance between neurotransmitters in the brains of smartphone- and internet-addicted teenagers. Cognitive behavioral therapy improved these imbalances, suggesting a potential treatment pathway for addiction.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2017

Scientists identify mechanism that helps us inhibit unwanted thoughts

Researchers discovered that a neurotransmitter called GABA plays a crucial role in inhibiting unwanted thoughts, particularly in individuals with disorders such as schizophrenia and anxiety. The study found that higher GABA concentrations in the hippocampus are associated with better thought suppression abilities.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2017

A new target for marijuana

A study published in JNeurosci found that chronic exposure to THC may alter inhibitory function in GABA neurons, increasing dopamine levels and promoting addictive qualities. This discovery could lead to a new target for treating cannabis use disorder.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateOct 16, 2017

Uncovering origins of developmental brain disorders could eventually help treat seizures

A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals that imbalances in the regulation of GABA, a crucial neurotransmitter, can lead to developmental brain disorders such as autism and seizure disorders. The research offers new hope for developing treatments by identifying a potential molecular switch controlling GABA production.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·DateOct 12, 2017
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GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Western researchers reverse the negative effects of adolescent marijuana use

Western researchers have identified a specific mechanism in the prefrontal cortex for the mental health risks associated with adolescent marijuana use and developed a way to reverse those risks using pharmaceuticals. The study found that reducing GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, can lead to hyperactive states in the brain's dopami...

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 12, 2017

Superhuman 'night' vision during the total eclipse?

Scientists at Ohio State University found a possible biological explanation for the unusual clarity of vision during the recent total solar eclipse. The presence or absence of a protein in the retina called a GABA receptor enhances night vision on sunny days but disappears at night.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 5, 2017

Heavy alcohol use alters brain functioning differently in young men and women

Research found that long-term heavy alcohol use affects male and female brains differently, with males showing more pronounced changes in electrical activity. The study suggests a possible mechanism for gender differences in alcohol response, highlighting the need for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 3, 2017

More brain activity is not always better when it comes to memory and attention

Recent studies suggest that excessive neural activity in specific brain regions can impair memory and attention. Inhibitory neurotransmission, mediated by GABA, plays a crucial role in regulating neural activity. The review highlights the importance of balancing aberrant neural activity to restore cognitive function.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBritish Journal of Pharmacology·DateJun 15, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

A flip switch for binge-eating?

Researchers discovered a brain subgroup that triggers binge-like eating when activated, leading to weight gain. Stimulation of this area with specific neurons or hormones increased food intake, but reduced it after stimulation stopped.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 25, 2017

Scientists unravel how protein impacts intellectual disability

Researchers found that a protein called HUWE1 helps balance nerve cell communication, which is essential for preventing intellectual disability. The study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying intellectual disability and could lead to potential treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 25, 2017

Love it or hate it: Marmite may affect brain function

A study by University of York researchers found that eating Marmite daily for a month reduced brain's response to visual stimuli by 30% in participants. This effect is believed to be due to the presence of vitamin B12, which increases GABA levels in the brain.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Psychopharmacology·DateApr 5, 2017

Major research project provides new clues to schizophrenia

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that patients with schizophrenia have lower levels of the neurotransmitter GABA and altered immune cell function. These findings provide new clues to the disease mechanisms of schizophrenia, but follow-up studies are needed to determine if these changes are causes or effects.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMar 14, 2017
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Fish eyes may hold key to regenerating human retinas

Scientists have identified GABA as a signal that triggers self-repair in fish retinas. They believe this could be the key to regenerating human retinas, naturally repairing damage caused by degenerative diseases. The researchers are now pursuing further studies with mice and zebrafish to confirm their findings.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 9, 2017

NIH-funded study helps explain how zebrafish recover from blinding injuries

Researchers discovered that decreased levels of neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) trigger the retina to produce stem cells in zebrafish, shedding light on retinal regeneration. The finding informs efforts to restore vision in people who are blind and has implications for regenerative medicine.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 9, 2017

New mech­an­ism un­der­ly­ing epi­lepsy found

Researchers discovered that gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) accelerates brain activity after a prolonged convulsive seizure, leading to harmful neural connections. Blocking GABA's effect with bumetanide may help prevent seizures and limit the severity of epilepsy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 27, 2017

Practice makes perfect, and 'overlearning' locks it in

A Brown University study finds that overlearning visual perception tasks strengthens learning and prevents interference, while a longer break between tasks allows for similar performance on both. The study suggests that a temporary shift in neurotransmitter balance is key to the effect of overlearning.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 30, 2017
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Heavy alcohol use in adolescence alters brain electrical activity

A study published in Addiction Biology found that long-term heavy drinking in adolescents alters brain electrical activity, particularly in the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmission system. This alteration may be detrimental to a developing brain, warranting tighter diagnostic criteria for substance abuse disorders.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAddiction Biology·DateJan 18, 2017

New strategy for antidepressant therapies

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a new strategy for antidepressant therapies by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brains of depressed mice. This approach shows promise as a rapidly acting and more effective treatment option.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 8, 2016

How depression and antidepressant drugs work

Researchers discover that depression results from deficiencies in both GABA and glutamate signaling, which can be restored with a single dose of ketamine. The study uses a mouse model to develop safer alternatives to current antidepressant medications.

SourcePenn State·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 18, 2016

TSRI scientists find root cause of appetite loss during illness

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute discover how an immune system molecule affects the brain, leading to reduced appetite in cancer and other disease patients. The discovery points to potential targets for treating loss of appetite and supporting weight gain.

SourceScripps Research Institute·DateMay 4, 2016

Understanding obesity from the inside out

Researchers developed a new laboratory method to study the function of GABA in brain processes controlling appetite and metabolism. The study found that mice lacking GABA in their hypothalamus, a key brain area regulating appetite, experienced significant weight loss and improved glucose tolerance.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 14, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Sleep apnea takes a toll on brain function

Researchers at UCLA found significant changes in brain chemicals GABA and glutamate in patients with sleep apnea, which can lead to symptoms like depression, stress, and memory loss. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea may help restore normal brain chemical levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Sleep Research·DateFeb 11, 2016