Norepinephrine
Articles tagged with Norepinephrine
World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.
New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
New insights into the molecular basis of ataxia
Researchers identified the α1D norepinephrine receptor as a key player in stress-induced motor incoordination associated with ataxias. The team showed that blocking this receptor restored normal activity of Purkinje cells, which could lead to new treatment approaches for patients with ataxia type 2.
How the brain supports social processing as people age
Older adults show increased locus coeruleus activity when processing hard-to-read facial expressions, which strengthens a neural pathway supporting mental well-being and resilience. This adaptive mechanism could help older individuals cope with cognitive decline or younger people with anxiety or depression.
Modulating the brain’s immune system may curb damage in Alzheimer’s
Calmming the brain's immune cells via norepinephrine may prevent or lessen Alzheimer's inflammation and damage. The study highlights a key role of norepinephrine in mitigating early inflammatory changes and neuronal injury.
A neural compass for fear: Mapping how the brain distinguishes between direct and vicarious fear
A research team has uncovered a fundamental brain circuit that distinguishes between direct and vicarious fear, with the locus coeruleus playing a crucial role in processing fear. The study reveals a lateralized LC-NAergic system that separates personal from socially learned fear, shedding light on empathy and social learning.
Common sleep aid may leave behind a dirty brain
A study published in Cell describes the synchronized oscillations that occur during non-REM sleep, including norepinephrine, cerebral blood volume, and CSF flow. The research highlights the critical role of these oscillations in powering the glymphatic system, which removes protein waste associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
How deep sleep clears a mouse’s mind, literally
Researchers discovered that norepinephrine triggers blood vessel constriction to propel cerebrospinal fluid through the brain, clearing out waste. The findings suggest that sleep aids may disrupt this process, potentially affecting long-term cognitive health.
Cell-targeting technology allows researchers to isolate neuronal subpopulations and link them to behavioral states
ConVERGD, a new tool developed by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists, enables precise manipulation of cellular subpopulations for studying specific behaviors. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize fundamental research and healthcare.
Dermatologists find ultraviolet irradiation increases appetite but prevents body weight gain
Research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology reveals that UV exposure increases energy expenditure by inducing the 'browning' of subcutaneous fat, thereby preventing weight gain. This breakthrough discovery opens up new possibilities for treating obesity and metabolic disorders.
How the brain’s arousal center helps control visual attention too
Researchers have discovered that activating the locus coeruleus, a brain structure producing norepinephrine, improves visual sensitivity in non-human primates. The study used optogenetics to selectively boost LC activity, resulting in drastic enhancements in performance on a visual attention task.
PET scans may predict Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia in at-risk individuals
Researchers used PET scans to detect low cardiac norepinephrine levels in individuals with Parkinson's risk factors, finding that those with low radioactivity were highly likely to develop Parkinson's or Lewy body dementia. The study suggests a potential biomarker for early detection and treatment of these diseases.
Landiolol and organ failure in patients with septic shock
A randomized clinical trial involving 126 patients found that landiolol did not prevent organ failure in those with established septic shock. The study concluded that this beta-blocker is not a suitable treatment option for managing tachycardia in these patients.
Female and male hearts respond differently to stress hormone in mouse study
Researchers discovered that female and male mouse hearts react uniformly at first to noradrenaline but exhibit differences in recovery time, affecting electrical activity. These findings may contribute to arrhythmia susceptibility between men and women, offering new insights into sex-based responses to stress hormones.
Stress transmitter wakes your brain more than 100 times a night – and it is perfectly normal
New research from the University of Copenhagen shows that noradrenaline causes brief wake-ups during sleep, potentially leading to better memory and less anxiety. High levels of noradrenaline result in brief awakenings, while low levels promote deeper sleep.
How the brain responds to surprising events
A new MIT study finds that noradrenaline helps the brain learn from surprising outcomes by stimulating behavior that leads to a reward, particularly in uncertain situations. The researchers also discovered that noradrenaline promotes taking a chance on getting a reward, even when the outcome is unknown.
Scientists detail brain dynamics implicated in neurological conditions
Researchers used fMRI and genetic mice to study neurotransmitters' effects on brain network connectivity, a dynamic process crucial for human health and behavior. They found activating the LC led to changes in DMN dynamics, suggesting new targets for treatment.
Farther or faster? Both improve distance running performance
A recent study found that block periodization with either increased low-intensity training volume or high-intensity interval training improved endurance performance in recreational athletes. Both methods resulted in average time improvements of 11-13 seconds on a 3000m run.
Alternative strategy for stalling Alzheimer’s neurodegeneration
A study published in the journal Brain found that boosting levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine with atomoxetine reduced markers of neuroinflammation and stabilized protein Tau, which forms neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. The treatment showed promising results in people with mild cognitive impairment.
Visuals increase attention; now science explains why
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio discovered that norepinephrine release in the visual cortex is tied to processing of imagery and cells' activation. This local regulation enhances sensory-specific attention and may represent a mechanism to enhance focus.
Cutting-edge: New and improved drug to counter spinal anesthesia blues during C-sections
Researchers from China conducted a clinical trial comparing two vasopressor protocols for preventing hypotension post-spinal anesthesia during cesarean sections. They found that norepinephrine infusion significantly reduced maternal hypotension and neonatal tachycardia, as well as improved cerebral oxygenation in newborns.
Drinking blocks a chemical that promotes attention
Scientists at UT Health San Antonio found that acute exposure to alcohol inhibits norepinephrine release, a chemical that activates vigilance-dependent astrocyte calcium activation. This leads to impaired attention and motor coordination, contradicting the cerebellum's role in motor control.
Parasite infection discovery could assist mental health treatments
New research suggests that T. gondii infection alters human behavior by lowering norepinephrine levels, which control stress response and neuroinflammation. This finding may contribute to the development of antipsychotic treatments for schizophrenia and other neurological disorders.
Antihypotensive agent disrupts the immune system in sepsis
Researchers from Radboud University Medical Center found that norepinephrine suppresses the function of white blood cells, impairing the body's ability to combat infections. The study suggests that alternative antihypotensive agents like vasopressin may be more effective in sepsis patients.
Brain-cell helpers powered by norepinephrine during fear-memory formation
Astrocytes support memory function through distinct molecular pathways triggered by norepinephrine release. Norepinephrine promotes synaptic plasticity and energy metabolism for memory consolidation.
Are eyes the window to our mistakes?
Scientists investigate how humans make mistakes and find that pupil dilation is linked to the brain's level of norepinephrine. Four sources of suboptimal decision-making are identified, including unequal weighing of evidence and noise in the brain.
Making fat mice lean: Novel immune cells control neurons responsible for fat breakdown
Researchers discovered specialized macrophages called SAMs that interact with sympathetic neurons to affect neuronal activation and fat mass reduction. Blocking SAM-mediated norepinephrine clearance boosts fat breakdown and weight loss in mice.
Shortage of drug to treat low blood pressure from septic shock associated with increased deaths
A study published in JAMA found that a nationwide norepinephrine shortage in 2011 was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital death among patients with septic shock. The shortage led to a decline in norepinephrine use, which may be related to worse outcomes and other unmeasured factors.
Study compares treatments to improve kidney outcomes for patients with septic shock
Researchers compared early treatment with vasopressin to norepinephrine in septic shock patients, finding that neither improved kidney failure-free days. The study suggests that larger trials may be needed to assess potential benefits of alternative treatments.
Researchers highlight brain region as 'ground zero' of Alzheimer's disease
The locus coeruleus is a critical brain region that releases norepinephrine, regulating heart rate, attention, memory, and cognition. It is vulnerable to toxins and infection, making it the first place affected by late-onset Alzheimer's disease.
Just 1 energy drink may boost heart disease risk in young adults
A study of 25 healthy young adults found that drinking one energy drink increased blood pressure and norepinephrine levels, which could predispose otherwise healthy individuals to cardiovascular risk. The findings suggest that commercially available energy drinks may be a contributing factor to heart disease in young adults.
Norepinephrine aids brain in sorting complex auditory signals
Researchers found that norepinephrine enhances the ability of neurons to code for complex sounds by decreasing background noise firing. This mechanism is separate from estradiol's effects and provides new insights into neuromodulator interactions and auditory processing.
Napping reverses health effects of poor sleep
A short nap can help relieve stress and bolster the immune systems of men who slept only two hours the previous night. Napping restores biomarkers of neuroendocrine and immune health to normal levels after a night of poor sleep, suggesting a potential way to counter the damaging effects of sleep restriction.
Researchers identify 2 genetic mutations that interact to lower heart attack risk
Two genetic mutations on a single gene have been found to interact and lower the risk of heart attacks in people who carry both variants. The study suggests that clinicians should test individuals with reduced activity of DBH and norepinephrine to determine if they benefit from beta blockers.
Fight-or-flight chemical prepares cells to shift brain from subdued to alert
A new study reveals that astrocytes can monitor and respond to nearby neural activity, but only when primed by the fight-or-flight chemical norepinephrine. This ability suggests that astrocytes may help control the brain's ability to focus.
Keeping one's eyes on the goal -- despite stress
Researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum found that beta blockers can prevent the negative effects of stress on goal-directed behavior. Stress affects habit formation and routine behavior, but not when norepinephrine is blocked by beta blockers.
Experimental treatments for cocaine addiction may prevent relapse
Researchers have identified a mechanism by which disulfiram, a decades-old treatment for alcoholism, prevents cocaine relapse. A newer drug, nepicastat, works through the same mechanism and shows promise in treating cocaine addiction.
Safety data favor norepinephrine over dopamine for shock
An editorial in NEJM suggests that norepinephrine is a safer option than dopamine for stabilizing blood pressure in shock patients, citing a European clinical trial. The study found no overall difference in death rates between the two treatments, but higher mortality rates in patients with cardiogenic shock treated with dopamine.
Old antidepressant offers promise in treating heart failure
Researchers have found an antidepressant, clorgyline, can blunt and reverse muscle enlargement and weakened pumping function associated with heart failure. The drug blocks the action of enzyme monoamine oxidase-A and stops its breakdown of a key neurohormone, norepinephrine.
New Down syndrome treatment suggested by Stanford/Packard study in mice
A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that boosting norepinephrine signaling in mice with Down syndrome-like conditions improves cognition. The researchers suggest using existing medications targeting depression and ADHD to treat the condition.
Researchers unravel mystery behind long-lasting memories
A new study reveals that strong memories, such as those of a first love or a traumatic event, are formed through the activation of Protein Kinase C (PKC) by norepinephrine in the brain. This process creates stronger connections between nerve cells, leading to long-lasting memories.
Gene test determines risk of heart surgery complications
Researchers discovered a genetic variant that can predict patients' risk of developing shock and kidney failure after heart surgery. Patients with the 'LL' gene variant are more likely to experience these complications and may not respond well to standard treatments, highlighting the potential benefits of personalized medicine.
Gene test determines risk of heart surgery complications
A gene test can help predict patients' risk of shock and kidney failure after heart surgery by identifying genetic differences in the COMT enzyme. This knowledge can guide treatment to prevent complications.
What emotional memories are made of
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that a hormone released during emotional arousal 'primes' nerve cells to remember events by increasing their chemical sensitivity. This process, known as the 'priming effect,' enhances the sculpting of memories into long-term storage.
How emotionally charged events leave their mark on memory
Researchers have discovered a mechanism that strengthens memory connections in response to emotional stress, which may underlie why traumatic events can be more vividly remembered than everyday ones. The study found that the stress hormone norepinephrine enhances learning and memory by increasing GluR1 receptors.
Chemical in brain acts like a fuel gauge
Researchers at USC have found that norepinephrine transmits a 'low blood sugar' message from the hindbrain to the paraventricular hypothalamus, triggering the release of energy stores to replace missing sugars. This discovery provides new insights into glucose sensing mechanisms in the brain and may hold potential for treating diabetic...
Ritalin packs punch by elevating norepinephrine, suppressing nerve signal transmissions
Researchers found that Ritalin increases norepinephrine and suppresses sensory responses in the brain, allowing individuals to focus better. The study provides insights into how the drug produces its paradoxical effects and may lead to more effective treatments for ADHD.
Increasing norepinephrine stabilizes breathing patterns in a mouse model of Rett Syndrome
Researchers discover that disturbances in norepinephrine levels lead to breathing problems in RTT mice. Increasing norepinephrine helps normalize breathing patterns, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for the disorder.
Univ. of Chicago scientists find potential cause of breathing problems in Rett Syndrome children
Researchers identify the breathing center in the medulla as the source of erratic breathing in Rett Syndrome, finding a significant decrease in norepinephrine. Adding norepinephrine can normalize breathing patterns, suggesting potential treatment options for the condition.
Depressed heart patients skip medications, have elevated stress hormones
Studies found that depressed heart patients are more likely to miss medication doses, with 14% of depressed patients not taking their meds as prescribed. Elevated stress hormones also linked to depression in heart disease patients.
Mood elevating hormone may trigger depression and heart problems
African-American study participants with a genetic variant for the mood-elevating hormone norepinephrine are at higher risk of depression, anxiety, and hypertension. Elevated norepinephrine levels, heart rate, and blood pressure were observed in those with the genetic variant.
Effects of autism reach beyond language, new research suggests
Researchers at Ohio State University found that pre-exam stress hinders students' ability to solve complex problems. After an exam, however, stress levels dropped, allowing for improved performance on word and shape tests.
Anxiety good for memory recall, bad for solving complex problems
Researchers at Ohio State University found that anxiety enhances memory recall but impairs problem-solving skills, particularly those requiring flexible thinking. Stress levels before an exam boost working memory, while stress after the exam improves word and shape tests.
Adrenaline packs a powerful punch in the use of antidepressants
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that most antidepressants, except citalopram, are ineffective on mice lacking norepinephrine. The researchers tested eight commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs and discovered a critical link between norepinephrine and desired behavioral effects.
Norepinephrine important in retrieving memories
Researchers found that norepinephrine is critical for retrieving intermediate-term contextual and spatial memories, but not for forming or long-term consolidating emotional memories. The study used mutant mice lacking norepinephrine and rats treated with beta blockers to test this hypothesis.
Study adds to knowledge of what it takes to stand up, walk
Researchers from Penn State College of Medicine developed a new measurement technique to assess norepinephrine release in tissues adjacent to blood vessels. This improvement allows for more accurate data on the hormone's role in vasoconstriction and maintains adequate blood pressure when standing up.
New Val-HeFT data shows valsartan reduces total heart failure hospitalizations
The Val-HeFT study found that valsartan significantly reduced total heart failure hospitalizations and morbidity, with a 27.5% delay to first hospitalization. Valsartan also attenuated the increase in norepinephrine levels associated with heart failure.
Researchers link genetic defect to 'head-rush' disorder
A genetic defect in the norepinephrine transporter has been identified as a key player in orthostatic intolerance, a condition that causes racing hearts, nausea, and dizziness. The discovery may lead to new understanding of blood pressure control and treatment strategies for this common clinical problem.