Cortical Neurons

The rules neurons follow to make sense of what we see

What can singing mice say about human speech?

A study found that singing mice didn't evolve a bigger brain or new neural connections to produce complex songs. Instead, their brains roughly tripled the number of neurons connecting the mouth-movement control center with target regions for hearing and vocalizations.

Brain diseases: certain neurons are especially susceptible to ALS and FTD

Researchers at DZNE identified five particularly affected cell types in the motor cortex, which are equally susceptible to ALS and FTD. The study used molecular fingerprinting to analyze human tissue samples and found that excitatory cells are primarily affected by the disease.

One way brain ‘conductors’ find precise connection to target cells

A study in mice confirms the presence of two molecules that enable precise connection between inhibitory interneurons and target excitatory neurons. This link regulates information processing and maintains balance in brain circuits, with implications for understanding neuronal disorders such as schizophrenia and autism.

It’s all in your head: Select neurons in the brainstem may hold the key to treating chronic pain

Researchers have identified a group of cells called Y1 receptor-expressing neurons in the brainstem's lateral parabrachial nucleus as critical for regulating long-term pain states. These neurons integrate information about hunger, fear and thirst, allowing pain signals to be modulated by other brain circuits signaling more urgent needs.

Brain probe powerfully records neural circuits during behavior

The Neuropixels Ultra probe overcomes technical challenges in recording individual cells across multiple brain regions. It detects twice as many brain cells and distinguishes specific subtypes, enabling scientists to decode and track brain cell performance related to visual stimuli.

New study reveals how the brain organizes and directs its slowest activity

A new study by Universidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche researchers reveals that brain slow waves are guided by neuronal excitability, not anatomy. The discovery uses advanced computational models to analyze local and global brain activity, shedding light on states like deep sleep and anesthesia.

UCLA researchers find how epilepsy genes disrupt different brain regions using stem cell models

Researchers found distinct effects of single disease-causing gene variants across different brain regions, pointing to hippocampal disruptions as a key factor in cognitive problems beyond seizures. This study provides an early step toward understanding why current treatments often fall short and may help identify new therapies.

How the brain allows us to infer emotions

Researchers have identified the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) as the basis of emotional inference in animals and humans. In a study published in Nature, Xiaowei Gu and Joshua Johansen found that rats can learn inferred emotions by associating a neutral stimulus with an unpleasant experience.

New insights into the energy balance of brain neurons

A study by Leipzig University researchers has provided high-resolution insights into the energy balance of brain neurons during spreading depolarizations. The findings show that even in 'healthy' brain tissue, these waves cause a temporary drop in ATP levels.

Researchers unveil evolutionary conservation and innovation in mammalian hypothalamus development

The study reveals conserved neural patterning mechanisms in mammalian hypothalamus development, tracing how brain cells emerge from neural progenitors during growth. The researchers identified four adaptive evolutionary divergences in human neurons, including a unique subtype and enhanced neuromodulation.

Molecules that fight infection also act on the brain, inducing anxiety or sociability

Researchers found that immune molecule IL-17 influences brain regions to induce either anxiety in the amygdala or sociable behavior in the somatosensory cortex. This discovery highlights the interconnectedness of the immune and nervous systems.

Artificial neurons organize themselves

Göttingen research team develops infomorphic neurons that learn independently and self-organize among neighboring neurons. This allows the smallest unit in the network to control its own learning, enabling novel machine learning approaches and a deeper understanding of brain function.

Decoding the neural basis of affective empathy: how the brain feels others' pain

A study by Dr. Keum Sehoon's team identified key neural ensembles in the anterior cingulate cortex that encode empathic freezing, a behavioral response to witnessing distress in others. The researchers found that observing another's pain triggers activation in the ACC as if the observer were experiencing pain themselves.

How the brain distinguishes between pain and itch

Researchers discovered distinct neuronal populations in the ACC process pain and itch information separately, with stimulus-specific neurons receiving differentiated synaptic inputs from the mediodorsal thalamus. Suppressing these neurons reduced corresponding sensations without affecting the other.

Neurons gather together for vision

Researchers have discovered column-like structures in the visual cortex of mice, where neurons processing stimuli from the same eye form clusters. This finding sheds light on the structural organization of the brain and may help solve the mystery of cortical columns' function.

Unraveling the brain’s hidden motor modules

Researchers discovered a horizontally distributed and modular organization of cortical movement units, with different types of neurons forming functional clusters in distinct regions. The study also found that the brain re-networks and adapts to learn new motor skills.

A geometric deep learning method for decoding brain dynamics

Researchers have created a geometric deep learning approach called MARBLE that can infer latent brain activity patterns across experimental subjects. The method uses dynamic motifs to analyze neural population recordings and has been shown to be more interpretable than other machine learning methods.

Mystery solved: New study reveals how DNA repair genes play a major role in Huntington's disease

Researchers discovered that mismatch repair genes are critical in eliciting damages to neurons vulnerable to Huntington's disease, triggering downstream pathologies and motor impairment. Targeting these genes may offer novel therapeutic approaches, including improving locomotor and gait deficits and reducing neuronal cell death.

A gateway to memory: Paul Ehrlich and Ludwig Darmstaedter Early Career Award 2025 goes to Tobias Ackels

Tobias Ackels' research reveals that mammals can differentiate between odor sources at lightning speed, using a temporal dimension to orient themselves in space. This ability is encoded in the output of the olfactory bulb and could be used for early detection of dementia.

Stem cell therapy jumpstarts brain recovery after stroke

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have shown that modified stem cells can improve brain activity after a stroke, even when administered one month later. The treatment reversed brain hyperexcitability and restored balance in neural networks, leading to long-lasting effects on brain function and repair.

‘Ding-dong:’ A study finds specific neurons with an immune doorbell

Research identifies IL-1R1-expressing neurons in key brain regions, including the somatosensory cortex and hippocampus, which regulate sensory processing, mood regulation, and memory. The study provides new insights into how inflammation contributes to sensory, mood, and memory disorders.

Brain regions that relieve effects of chronic stress in mice differ based on sex

Studies activated neurons in different brain regions to make male and female mice resilient to stress, revealing distinct sex-specific mechanisms. Gene expression changes were also observed in brain regions of stressed resilient vs non-resilient mice, suggesting potential for lasting protective changes.

Leuven researchers discover new connectivity rules in the brain’s visual network

Two studies reveal complex and flexible visual information processing in the brain's cortex and thalamus. Researchers identified pathways that selectively channel visual signals to targeted areas or broadcast information broadly across multiple regions.

New insights into sleep uncover key mechanisms related to cognitive function

A new study from Rice University and Houston Methodist reveals that NREM sleep enhances neuronal and behavioral performance by fostering brain synchronization and information encoding. Researchers replicated these effects through invasive stimulation, suggesting promising possibilities for future neuromodulation therapies.

Anti-anxiety and hallucination-like effects of psychedelics mediated by distinct neural circuits

Researchers used a mouse model to study the effects of psychedelics on anxiety and hallucinations, finding that distinct neural circuits are responsible. By targeting specific neurons, they were able to reduce anxiety-like behaviors without inducing hallucinations.

Brain pathways that control dopamine release may influence motor control

Researchers at MIT have discovered additional brain pathways that modulate dopamine release, influencing movement and emotional decisions. The newly identified pathways appear to relay emotional information that helps shape motivation to take action.

Scientists discover unexpected link between genes involved in human brain evolution and developmental disorders

Researchers found that two human-specific genes, SRGAP2B and SRGAP2C, regulate the SYNGAP1 gene involved in autism spectrum disorder. The study provides a direct link between human brain evolution and neurodevelopmental disorders.

The way sensory prediction changes under anesthesia tells us how conscious cognition works

Researchers found that conscious thought requires synchronized communication—mediated by brain rhythms in specific frequency bands—between basic sensory and higher-order cognitive regions of the brain. Under anesthesia, communication was lost, highlighting the key role of frontal areas in consciousness.

Brain molecule makes neurons less selective, deepening understanding of human cognition

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered how a brain cell surface molecule shapes neuron behavior, finding that it suppresses selectivity in neurons. The study's findings may help scientists better understand causes of autism, schizophrenia, and epilepsy.

New brain-mapping tool may be the “START” of next-generation therapeutics

A new brain-mapping neurotechnology called Single Transcriptome Assisted Rabies Tracing (START) has been developed to map the brain's intricate neuronal connections. The technique combines two advanced technologies to resolve cortical connectivity at the resolution of transcriptomic cell types, enabling the identification of distinct p...

Encoding human experience: Study reveals how brain cells compute the flow of time

A landmark study found specific types of brain cells fired in a way that mirrored the order and structure of a person's experience. The brain retains these unique firing patterns after the experience is concluded and can rapidly replay them while at rest.

Penny for your thoughts? Master copper regulator discovery may offer Alzheimer’s clues

A recent study by FAU researchers links copper regulation to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. The team discovered that a specific gene, swip-10, plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of copper in cells, which can prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress.

Pink elephants in the brain?

A study published in Neuron reveals that neurons are wired to connect seemingly unrelated concepts, enhancing the brain's ability to predict what we see based on past experiences. Visual experience influences the organisation of feedback projections, which store information about the world.

When faster is not better: New study links premature development of human neurons to brain developmental disorders

Researchers discovered that mutations in the SYNGAP1 gene disrupt prolonged human neuron development, leading to accelerated maturation and altered cognitive function. This finding has implications for understanding and treating intellectual disabilities and autism.

UW model shows cortical implants like Elon Musk’s Blindsight unlikely to ‘exceed normal human vision’

A new study from the University of Washington suggests that cortical implants like Blindsight, developed by Neuralink, will not provide high-resolution vision. Instead, researchers found that a single electrode stimulates only one neuron, and image sharpness is determined by thousands of neurons in the brain.

Study provides the first anatomical and functional representation of the ocular surface in the central nervous system

Researchers characterize thalamic and cortical neurons responding to ocular surface stimulation, showing diverse multimodal response profiles. The study provides insights into how sensory stimulus information is integrated from the peripheral nervous system into the brain's cortical networks.

Researchers find key differences in brain development between autistic boys and girls

A new study found significant differences in brain development between autistic boys and girls, with autistic females showing a thicker cortex at age 3 and faster cortical thinning into middle childhood. The findings highlight the need for longitudinal studies that include both sexes to better understand sex-specific changes in autism.

“What was that?” — How brains convert sounds to actions

A new study reveals that neural activity related to sound detection and movement are temporally separated but share commonalities, with neurons adapting their activity based on experience. The findings shed light on the brain's complex processing of sensory information and behavioral choices.

Study uncovers multiple lineages of stem cells contributing to neuron production

Researchers discover at least three parallel lineages of stem cells generating neurons in the cerebral cortex, influencing its folding and development. The findings have implications for understanding human brain growth and malformations.

Developmental crossroads in the brain

Researchers discovered that MEIS2 plays a critical role in activating genes necessary for the formation of inhibitory projection neurons, vital for motion control and decision-making. A MEIS2 mutation found in patients with intellectual disability disrupts these processes.

The construction of visual attention highlighted at the neuronal level

Researchers used intracortical recordings to study the neural mechanisms behind exogenous attention, identifying three cortical networks activated in sequence as attention was captured by visual stimuli. The findings suggest a continuum of activity in the cortex, with attention emerging as a bridge between perception and action.

Live from the brain: Visual cues inform decision to cooperate

A study published in Nature tracked neural activity of freely moving macaques using wireless eye tracking and neural monitoring. The research found that the visual cortex plays an active role in social behavior by providing signals to the prefrontal cortex, enabling the decision to cooperate.

Study reveals a universal pattern of brain wave frequencies

Researchers found that brain waves are slower in deep cortical layers and faster in superficial layers, with gamma waves dominating the topmost layers. These oscillations may play a fundamental role in brain function and contribute to disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

SARS-CoV-2 can infect dopamine neurons causing senescence

A new study finds that SARS-CoV-2 can infect dopamine neurons, causing them to lose their ability to grow and divide, leading to inflammation and potentially severe neurological symptoms. Researchers discovered three drugs that may block or rescue infected dopamine neurons from senescence.

Brain dynamics of the "wave of death" highlighted for the first time

Scientists have identified key stages in the 'wave of death' - a high-amplitude wave that marks the transition to complete brain silence after oxygen deprivation. The study found that this critical event induces neuronal death throughout the cortex and can be reversible with timely resuscitation.

Precise gene editing in human stem cells and neurons reveals links between genome organization and autism

Researchers used CRISPR gene editing to study the impact of CHD8 mutations on human cortical neurons. The study found that CHD8 alterations drive molecular and cellular defects in neurons, leading to reduced activity and synaptic communication.

Why are the brain's nerve cells organized into modules?

Researchers discovered that brain nerve networks are organized into interconnected modules to segregate and integrate inputs, enabling efficient processing. This modular architecture allows the brain to balance local activity with global integration, essential for information representation.

Mathematical theory predicts self-organized learning in real neurons

Researchers used a mathematical theory called the free energy principle to predict how real neural networks learn and organize themselves. The study successfully mimicked this process in rat embryo neurons grown in a culture dish, demonstrating the principle's guiding force behind biological neural network learning.

Unveiling the mechanism underlying orofacial movements during reward processing in animals

Researchers discovered that stimulating dopamine neurons in mice's midbrain triggers orofacial movements, which are linked to brain-wide neuronal activities. The study identified two distinct orofacial movements: transient actions upon reward expectation and active, sustained movements upon receiving a reward.

July issues of American Psychiatric Association journals cover advances in social determinants of mental health, youth mental health screening, AI in psychotherapy and more

The latest issues of American Psychiatric Association journals feature articles on social determinants of health, youth mental health screening, and AI in psychotherapy. Journalists can access publications by emailing press@psych.org.

Neurons involved in cognitive flexibility communicate at a distance

Researchers have discovered that inhibitory neurons can transmit information over long distances in the prefrontal cortex, allowing for adaptive changes in behavior. This synchronization of gamma oscillations is associated with the realization of new rules and enables cognitive flexibility.

Random networks of neurons can predict the timing stimulus

Researchers found that neural networks grown in a dish can predict future stimulus events, with higher prediction efficiencies in focally stimulated networks. Focal electrical stimulation induced long-term memory traces and reduced dependence on short-term memory.

How the brain processes numbers – New procedure improves measurement of human brain activity

Researchers at TUM developed a new approach to measure human brain activity using microelectrodes and awake brain surgery. They found individual neurons specialize in handling specific numbers, providing insights into cognitive functions and developing solutions for brain function disorders.

Brain pathway identified that impairs postpartum social behavior after adolescent stress

A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researcher Minae Niwa found that adolescent psychosocial stress, combined with pregnancy and delivery, causes hypofunction of a key neural circuit. This altered circuitry leads to abnormal social behavior in postpartum women, including reduced interaction time with familiar mice.

Abnormalities in neurodevelopment could lay the foundations for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that the amyloid precursor protein (APP) regulates human neurogenesis, which could be linked to Alzheimer's disease. APP promotes a balance between stem cell proliferation and differentiation, suggesting its disruption may cause premature neurogenesis and cellular stress.

Sparse, small, but diverse neural connections help make perception reliable, efficient

Researchers mapped every thalamic synapse on 15 neurons in layer 2/3 of the visual cortex in mice and found that despite being weak and sparse, they are reliable and efficient representatives of information. The diversity of thalamic inputs underlies these advantages, allowing a small population of neurons to assemble the overall picture.

Researchers develop method to study brain connectivity, functionality

A new research method allows for a detailed examination of brain processes involved in neurological disorders by integrating human cortical organoids into developing rat brains. The study finds that transplanted organoids integrate into specific brain pathways, displaying functional connectivity.

New article in Cell Reports on measuring scene brightness with visual brains

Researchers in Cell Reports study neuronal responses to bright and dark surfaces, finding that large bright surfaces activate both light-ON and light-OFF neurons, increasing the combined response with surface brightness and size. This challenges the long-standing assumption that only surface edges drive strong cortical responses.

New study shows how microglia are prompted to change their state to adapt to different areas of the brain

A new study published in Nature reveals that microglia cells change their molecular state to match neighboring neurons, influencing neural circuit function. The researchers found that different types of cortical neurons recruit specific numbers of microglia, which then adapt to the neuron's environment.